Tag Archive | books

Acts of Closure

Aug2

Book Link

From Amazon:

Winner, 2023 Independent Press Award for Romance

Have you ever thought about a person from your past and wondered what if? You know who I mean…the one that got away. I have, and his name is Jack Perry. He’s fun and flirty. Sexy and mysterious. But there’s also a dark, brooding side where he hides a secret bedroom desire. A provocative veiled persona no one knows about. Well, no one except me.

You see, years ago, we had an internet relationship. After trading countless emails about our private thoughts, he went deeper, confiding in me what was missing from the most private side of himself. It intrigued me, and I never forgot about it. Now my life has been thrown into a tailspin. I feel invisible these days. Lost…and after all these years, Jack and his soulful eyes have been on my mind. A lot. I made the decision to experience the tall and handsome Mr. Perry in the flesh. To stop being invisible. To start feeling alive again.

So, here I am, standing on his front porch, ready to meet him for the first time. No matter what happens, this evening is destined to be full of surprises. You’re welcome to come along. Within these pages is a story you don’t want to miss…

My Review:

This is not my normal read. Note: Explicit erotica – for those who don’t read this genre.

That out of the way, I found myself wrapped up in the psyche of both Natalie and Jack. All of the how and what happened to shape their lives going forward since childhood. For me, those were the mpost compelling parts of the book.

Natalie meets Jack face to face for the first time, and sparking a relationship that started from messaging each other for a long time on a social media app. The story is not the severe erotic deeds, but the path their lives each took and the trajectory each one is currently on.

Meet Marco Marek

Jul31

Please welcome Marco Marek to my blog today. Great to have you on. Shall we get started?  

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hello there, I’m Marco Marek, I’m a writer from Italy and I write most in English because the market is more wide and I don’t want to be restricted to just one country.

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

Well, I started in 2010, I always liked fantasy movies and books, like the Lord of Rings, Jules Verne, Harry Potter etc. I thought one day why I can write my own fantasy story? Then I wrote my first book Hyperearth.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

I think for me it was never been difficult writing, I have a story in mind then I develop it while I’m writing, I plan the plot sometimes so  it more easy to write.

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

I don’t know, I think I never thought to give up, most the promotion and asking for a review it is stressful since you find lot of people lazy and take ages until they write a review, and sometimes they don’t leave it at all.

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

Family and some relatives, friends, the dream is to see your book on cinema screen!

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

To read without prejudice, some readers would like your book must be a masterpiece, and written like they want. Instead a reader should read and appreciate every story a writer has to say, then can express their thought.

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

Read read read a lot  and learn then you can write… I think it was Stephen King

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

Young adult, hoping they enjoy the adventures that are on my books

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

First two books I created my self the cover, for the trilogy I hired a professional artist, that she created the cover like I wanted.

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

I ended a book just some months ago, It is a story of a woman, former singer star in decadence and a bit depressed who has won an holiday in Mexico, then she will  meet a man who had some issues than her plus amnesia, then they will be involved in various adventures…

Any last words before we wrap things up?

Hope to get more Fantasy readers, they are important for us indie authors, with they help we can grow more, so please leave a review, that’s our best reward.

(Author interview NOT edited.)

Bio

Marco Marek is an award winning author from Italy. He always had a fervid imagination and a passion for fantasy stories, medieval magicians, ancient history, and unexplained mysteries. While he was visiting a castle in Eastern Europe, he had the idea of writing Hyperearth. Apart from writing, Marco is also a painter and photographer, he likes digital artwork on Photoshop. He loves travelling when he has some free time.

Book links

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08PPXC23J series

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PSKCB8X ms 2

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MSJW0BD   amstel

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00R9NRX4M

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/magic-streets-marco-marek/1130202539?ean=2940155941477

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/magic-streets-marco-marek/1138396415?ean=2940164740085

https://www.kobo.com/it/it/ebook/magic-streets-prague-bound-book-1

https://store.kobobooks.com/it-it/ebook/hyperearth

https://www.kobo.com/it/it/ebook/amstel-girl-playing-with-destiny

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/hyperearth-marco-marek/1120940194?ean=9781514831342

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/amstel-girl-marco-marek/1125060040?ean=9781540661203

https://books.apple.com/us/book/magic-streets-london-bound-book-two/id1542623000

https://books.apple.com/us/book/magic-streets-prague-bound-book-1/id1449440926?mt=11

https://books.apple.com/us/book/hyperearth/id952864504?mt=11

https://books.apple.com/us/book/amstel-girl-playing-with-destiny/id1171033005?mt=11

Social Networks

https://marcomarek77.wixsite.com/marcomarek

https://www.facebook.com/MarcoMarekAuthor/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/10943506.Marco_Marek

http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00S1GBND8 

https://www.threads.com/@marcomarekauthor

https://www.instagram.com/marcomarekauthor/

https://youtu.be/asQyWpAR6aQ

http://marcomarekauthor.tumblr.com/

http://marcomarekauthor.blogspot.it/

From Literary Titan!!!

Jul29

From Literary Titan

Mary L. Schmidt’s latest children’s book follows young Horace, who is no ordinary pig. He’s a dreamer with his snout pointed firmly toward the stars. His greatest ambition? To venture into space. Yet, despite his lofty hopes, he quietly doubts that his dream will ever lift off. Until, unexpectedly, it does. A formal invitation arrives, and Horace is headed to the International Space Station.

Horace in Space is a delightful children’s book that effortlessly blends whimsical storytelling with factual space education. Tailored for children aged 1 to 8, this charming tale is brief in length, fitting for young attention spans, but rich in imagination and heart. The book’s vibrant illustrations serve as both emotional cues and narrative anchors, helping children see what Horace feels, thinks, and experiences.

Schmidt captures Horace’s sense of awe with genuine warmth. His naive excitement, so relatable for young readers, evolves into a more grounded understanding as his fantasy meets the real-world challenges of space. In doing so, Schmidt crafts a gentle lesson: reality might differ from dreams, but that doesn’t make it any less extraordinary.

The book strikes a thoughtful balance between imaginative adventure and educational value. Without ever sacrificing the fun, it introduces children to life in orbit, from the thrill of liftoff to the peculiarities of floating in microgravity. Facts are woven naturally into the narrative, ensuring that learning feels organic rather than instructional.

While Schmidt’s prose may not echo the playful cadences of Dr. Seuss or the clever wordplay of Shel Silverstein, Horace in Space still stands as a delightful addition to any young reader’s collection. Horace himself is an endearing protagonist, one whose journey feels ripe for expansion. It’s easy to envision this story as the launchpad for a larger series.

Horace in Space delivers more than just a tale about a pig in orbit; it offers young readers a chance to explore, imagine, and discover alongside a character who is every bit as curious and wide-eyed as they are.

Book Link

Road Kill

Jul21

Book Link

From Amazon:

A dark road. Two dead men. And a killer who won’t quit.

When a livestock trailer is found abandoned on a remote Texas Hill Country road—one man shot, the other skewered by an arrow—Deputy Adam Cash knows this isn’t your typical cattle theft. The trailer belongs to rancher Paul Moreland, who swears he knows nothing. The bodies suggest otherwise.

As Cash digs deeper, the case unravels fast. The victims worked for Moreland.

Another suspect, Branson Kent, is caught mid-heist—then ends up dead days later. The trail leads to Shaeffer’s Livestock, a shady auction barn where stolen cattle change hands and secrets run deep.

When a second murder silences the pen man who could have talked, Cash realizes someone is eliminating witnesses, and he might be next.

Roadkill is the fourth book in the Adam Cash Mystery Series, a pulse-pounding Texas mystery perfect for fans of C.J. Box, Jeff Carson, and Craig Johnson.

Award-winning author Jeff Kerr delivers another tightly woven modern Western thriller—packed with gritty justice, sharp twists, and the high-stakes tension only Texas can offer.

My Review:

Mary Schmidt

5.0 out of 5 stars Gritty for sure

Reviewed in the United States on July 20, 2025

Verified Purchase

Wow. This is the first book I’ve read by Kerr. Talk about a gritty murder mystery western book! This one packs a huge punch as the body count goes up. A great twist to modern day cattle rustling gone totally haywire. I thought I had it figured out but I was way off. Much of this novel is gritty, but not with actual mention of the bloody parts of the murders. Which is nice. This one packs a punch plenty without listing gruesome findings. Truly western feel and very much Texas!

Meet Francis Powell

Jul11

Please welcome Francis H Powell to my blog. Good Morning! Shall we chat and visit?  

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

I am writer and an artist amongst other things

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

I went to Art school, so for a long time I set my sights on being an artist. I had some false starts as a writer, but when I was living in Paris, I began writing short stories and getting them published.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

It was hard, when it got to editing,  in that I am from the UK and the publisher/editor was from the states so there was a culture clash. Also I wasn’t familiar with the editin process.

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

I think you put in a lot more than you get out, if you are struggling writer.

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

There was a man I knew who was very appreciative of my work and who published in a “homemade” magazine.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Yes indeed. I helped put together an anthology. It’s the second anthology I have helped put together. It’s called We All Live Under the same Sky. It’s part of a series called How to Save the world and it’s published as an E book by Compassiviste Publishing. It’s theme is loosely about “humanity”.

I was influenced to start the project, having watched the news and the suffering children in Palestine were going through, due to the war. I reached out to frends and poets from around the world. Some people declined to send me work, which is their perogative.  Some were worried it was a political book, where as in fact it is purely humanitarian.  The money raised by the book will go to a project called “Road to Recovery” an organization that transports injured or sick Palestinians to hospitals.

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

With the anthology, I would love it if people feel the need to be more compassionate, think about the people who are the victims of a war.

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

As the book is part of a series, a graphic designer appointed by the publisher did the artwork and I was happy with the result. With my other books I liked to do or influence the covers, but this anthology I was fine to leave it in the hands of another person.

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

A time traveller who travells from 1968 to the present day, to see how things have evolved, only to find the same political turmoil.

Any last words before we wrap things up?

Please take a look at We All Live Under he Same Sky. Even if you don’t like poetry, there are also some short stories and a few illustration and more than anything else the book is aiming to raise money for an urgent humanitarian cause.

LINK FOR THE BOOK We All Live Under the Same Sky

We All Live Under the Same Sky eBook by Compassiviste Authors’ Collective – EPUB | Rakuten Kobo Australia

Born in 1961, in Reading. Francis H Powell currently lives in Moret sur Loing, France writing both prose and poetry. He’s had four  books published as well as  poems published in anthologies, for both adults and children.  His first book was entitled  Flight of Destiny, a book full of short stories.  His second published book was called Adventures of Death, Reincarnation and Annihilation. Other books include “The Fish King and the Two Wise Ghosts,” a children’s story which included illustrations. He’s done poetry readings for Paris Lit up as well as other events.  He also has done poetry workshops and visits to schools.

Twitter (X)  Francis H Powell

@Dreamheadz

Instagram @francis_h_powell_writer

Francis H Powell author – Flight of Destiny book (wordpress.com)

Francis H. Powell (Author of Flight of Destiny) (goodreads.com)

Bluesky @fhpowellwriter.bsky.social

FRANCIS H POWELL AUTHOR OF FLIGHT OF DESTINY AND OTHER STORIES – Home page

Amazon.fr: Francis H Powell: livres, biographie, dernière mise à jour

Meet Anthony DiAngelo

Jul6

Welcome to my blog. Good morning. Shall we get started?

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

Hello everyone, my name is Anthony DiAngelo, and I am an aspiring author from a small town in British Columbia, Canada. My hope, and goal, is to make writing my full-time career as I continue to pursue representation from a literary agent.

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

I have always had a love of storytelling and creating characters since early childhood. I had never taken it seriously as I doubted my own skill and believed I wasn’t good enough. For an assignment given to me by one of my teachers, I had to write an essay discussing an event that changed my life. I wrote, for my subject, about my near-death experience when I nearly perished from an illness that forever changed my life. The resulting material brought my teacher to tears and she suggested I consider writing as a vocation. It wasn’t until over a decade later that I had the inclination to write my first novel. I “knew” it was time to write my first book after an incredibly detailed dream that wouldn’t leave me alone until I wrote down the notes.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

Actually, writing the book wasn’t difficult for me, it was editing. When I started work on the first book, I wasn’t aware of the structure of a novel and basically just poured my thoughts out onto the page. There was a rudimentary plotline, but it was a long, continuous storyline. I read about creating a structure and a formula for driving the plot. As a result, I chopped the book nearly in half through the editing process and saved the cut material stored away for a potential sequel.

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

I, like so many creatives out there, suffer from self-doubt. I have had many moments where I have felt as though I am fooling myself and that my work isn’t good enough. The rejection from agents and criticism from critics make it difficult at times to keep going. Marketing and getting my work out to the world is my greatest challenge and having been scammed by the predators on social media has also made me skeptical. The love for the craft of storytelling is what stopped me and continues to keep me forging ahead.

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

My mother and my girlfriend. Both are the first to read my work and are not afraid to hit me with the negative feedback when it arises. Their belief in my talent helps me pick myself up when I fall and keep moving.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

Simply I hope you enjoy my work. My goal is to entertain and take your mind off the stresses of everyday life if only for a short while.

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

I don’t recall where the quote originates but I often repeat to myself: “You are the only person who can tell your story.”

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

This one is difficult to answer as my available titles are each written in a different genre and therefore have a different audience. I would say the aspect of my writing would be how I develop the atmosphere of each scene. I am a visual writer and what the reader to experience the scene as if they’re right next to the character.

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

I designed my covers myself and were what I imagined as I built the plot for each book. It was essential to me that the covers act as a teaser to what will be read within the pages that follow.

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

I am working on a fantasy series that could potentially be up to six books. Unfortunately, I do not have an excerpt at this time, but I describe it as Game of Thrones meets Star Wars.

Any last words before we wrap things up?

Not really, I would simply like to thank you for the opportunity to promote my work and also thank those who have taken the time to read my work.

Required Links:

Website: https://novelsbydiangelo.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14DTJGYbK1j/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Twitter: https://x.com/a_diangelo?s=21

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthonydi.angelo/profilecard/?igsh=MW56M3o5c2gyc3k4ZA==

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@a_diangelo6783?_t=ZM-8xkH6ehjXIG&_r=1

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/126163042

My Amazon book links:

DESCENT INTO THE HALLWAY OF MADNESS: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JDYXPX7

A HAUNTING FOR CHRISTMAS: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08M8DGKYW

SICILIAN ROULETTE: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08XLNTJPB

When Secrets Bloom

Jul5

Book Spotlight: When Secrets Bloom, an Enchanting Transylvanian Historical Fiction Novel by Patricia Furstenberg

Book Title: When Secrets Bloom

Series: Blood of Kings, Heart of Shadows, Book #1

Author Name: Patricia Furstenberg

Publication Date: June 27, 2025

Publisher: Independently Published

Pages: 493

Genre: Historical Fiction / Mystery / Women’s Crime Fiction / Romanian Literature & Fiction

Any Triggers: n/a

Blurb:

Transylvania, 1463

Some secrets heal. Others kill.

Kate Webber, a 28-year-old Saxon healer, has long walked the line between reverence and suspicion. Trained in the healing arts under the guidance of Lord Vlad Dracula, she has learned that skill alone cannot protect a woman in a city ruled by fear. Her marriage to the powerful but secretive Magyar promised stability, yet left her silenced and watched. On a bitter Advent night, when a mother and her newborn face death, Kate defies her husband’s command and steps into danger — for life, not reputation.

When Kate succeeds, the city notices. Some with awe. Others with fury. The town physician, threatened by her talent and humiliated by her success, seizes his moment. And as rumors flare into accusations, old alliances stir. Iancu, Kate’s childhood friend and now captain of the Militia, comes to her aid during the perilous birth — rekindling memories of freedom, laughter, and trust, before marriage shackled her to duty.

Back in her workshop, a girl appears, pleading for a love potion. But Margit brings more than need. She leads a mob. Elsewhere in the city, Moise, a Jewish apprentice at the printing press, notices a cloaked figure drifting across the square: a Shaman whose presence draws whispers of Magyar’s hidden dealings. When a rare manuscript disappears from the press Moise begins to uncover a darker purpose: a sought-after book. On the day of execution Kate performs a final act of defiance, she saves another child, while Moise is framed for more than he could have ever imagined.

Kate and Moise’s fates, as well as the map’s legacy, unfold as some secrets must be read not in books, but in the hearts of those who hide them.

Kate is a fictional character, yet through her eyes When Secrets Bloom offers a vivid, textured glimpse into 15th-century life in Kronstadt (today Brasov), Transylvania. From the daily rhythms of a fortress ruled by Saxon and Szekler men to the endearing hopes of Vlach and Jewish communities; from the quiet power women wield behind closed doors to the looming shadow of the Church and to whispered fears of plague and heresy, this novel immerses the reader fully in a world both beautiful and brutal.

The presence of Vlad the Impaler’s memory — observed not through myth but through Kate’s wary, intimate lens — adds a haunting tension to the tale. It’s the kind of historical fiction that doesn’t just tell a story, it transports you into its bones.

Fans of rousing historical fiction with a feminist bent will find much to love in When Secrets Bloom.

Buy Link:

Universal Buy Link: https://mybook.to/wsb

This title is available to read on #KindleUnlimited.

Author Bio:

Patricia Furstenberg is a multi-genre writer inspired by the forgotten corners of the past, where truth and legend entwine. With a medical degree and a heart rooted in her native Transylvania, her stories often explore resilience, hidden truths, and the quiet strength of women. She is best known for her geopolitical fiction Silent Heroes and WW2 historical fiction Joyful Trouble. Part of an upcoming book series, When Secrets Bloom is her latest release. Today, Patricia lives in sunny South Africa with her family.

For more information about Patricia’s books please visit her website or find her on social media.

Author links:

Author website: https://alluringcreations.co.za/wp/

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

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

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

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/patfurstenberg.bsky.social

Amazon Author Page: https://author.to/PatFurstenberg

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/237060534-when-secrets-bloom

Meet Billy J. Barnum

Jul2

Please welcome Billy J. Barnum to my blog. Hello Billy. Nice to have you on today.  

Please introduce yourself to those reading this blog post.

My name is Billy J. Barnum, a world-famous poet and author who has sold books worldwide. I am a direct descendant of the also world-famous Ringmaster from the “Ringling brothers, Barnum, and Bailey circus” Phineus T. Barnum aka P.T. Barnum.

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

I started writing as a teenager when something hit me out of the blue and I scribbled it down frantically. Once I read it back, I had chills down my spine because it was one of the most awesome poems I’ve ever read but did not know where it came from. In 2019 my publishing journey began as I figured they’d sit in a notebook anonymously or I would share them with the world. I chose the latter of course.

How difficult was it writing your first book?

The book was written already for years but I had no clue how to get it published. The first publisher took forever to get it out so I learned how to and started self-publishing so I can make every book as I envisioned them to be.

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

I never ever wanted to give up but as stated I was just a little reprehensive to do it.

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

Honestly all my friends and family have been awesome. I think my son Orion is quietly a big supporter.

Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

If you dive into my book and give them a chance, I am sure they will profoundly affect your outcome on life and give you hope for the future. You will definitely be taken on a wild ride with some poems, and of course some will pull on the heart strings and others will make you chuckle and even belly laugh.

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

Just give it a shot.

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

I think a lot of people in the UK, Canada, Germany are large. I think they are getting the true meaning behind the meanings of the books. Of course, the USA is a HUGE supporter.  

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

I carefully selected them to fit the title of each book.

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

The last book was “The Last New Tales from The Baron” but never say never 😉

Any last words before we wrap things up?

I am so honored to be included in the awesome Blog and thank Mary from the bottom of my heart for including me. I also urge everyone to go on Amazon and type in the search “Billy J. Barnum” to get a copy of and see all my epic poetry books and 5-star reviews.

BIO:

I am not just a poet I am also a storyteller. In my books you’ll find thought provoking, conversation starting, and wildly profound poetry that makes the imagination soar and plays with the heartstrings.Some poems may make you laugh out loud as well. It is my hopes that if you love great stories you’ll love the poetry in these books. Always remember to Dream Big!

Website: https://www.talesfromthebaron.com/

Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/talesfromthebaron

Twitter: https://x.com/Poetryman551

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Billy-J-Barnum/author/B07YSZRDL2?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=e97c2bee-07a8-490a-bfc2-6170e002dd1b

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/billy%20j.%20barnum

Wonder of Light

Jun29

Book Link

From Amazon:

Wonder of Light is officially a Trilogy. The title Wonder of Light is book 1 in the series. It is recommended to read them in order, but each novel can be read as a standalone.

I was inspired by true events to write this book; however, the story line and characters are fictional. It is a young adult romance, set in high school. It is a high school bully/adversaries-to-lovers style romance. There are depictions of violence, nothing too graphic, and profanity has been censored due to the spiritual nature of the book.

Sarah

There’s just something about Evan Simes that keeps drawing me to him. Even though he’s the opposite of me in almost every way and avoids me at every turn. He mostly keeps to himself. Especially when I’m in his presence. I don’t know what makes him so angry or resistant to my efforts to break down his walls, but he seems to want nothing to do with me. Yet I can’t help continuing to try to get through.

Evan

Belton’s bible queen, Sarah Warner, thinks she can fool me with her fake graciousness. I see through the facade. She and her popular crew are vapid pretenders hiding behind their trust funds and holier-than-thou images while looking down on those of they think are beneath them. Well enough is enough. They’re all going to pay for their sins. It’s only a matter of time before my best friend Tyler and I get our revenge.

My Review:

This novel is totally heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. Older teenagers can relate to this novel as most characters are in their senior year of high school. Cheesy love stories? One or two. Abusive parental figures? Toss that into the mix. Serious illness? Fold that in gently with issues of being bullied and being saved by Jesus Christ is beautiful.

A Year in the Life of Belinda Brand

Jun23

Book Link

From Amazon:

Belinda Brand becomes an overnight sensation when Hollywood offers to make a film of her runaway bestseller. A confident, modern woman, she has the world at her feet – and a secret she is convinced no one will ever discover. Leah, her gentle and long-suffering stepmother will guess, but she would never betray her, or would she? When menacing notes appear after the Awards ceremony in London and then follow her across the Atlantic, Belinda realizes someone is threatening to expose her.As she struggles to stay calm, her best friend disappears, Belinda’s celebrity life turns into a nightmare and there is no one she can trust.If the Brand family thought they could lead a quiet, normal life, they were wrong. Danger continues to lurk in the shadows. A fast-paced, page-turning psychological thriller, full of surprises, twists, and turns. For fans of Karin Slaughter, Claire McGowan, Valerie Keogh, and Liane Moriarty.

My Review:

5.0 out of 5 stars Loved this

Reviewed in the United States on June 12, 2025

Format: KindleVerified Purchase

What another great read by Ms. Clarke. I’ve read other books in any African setting, but this was the first one I’ve read in this series. This book can be read as a standalone book. As book two in the series, this one is rather awesome. I could relate to the character of Belinda and, to be honest, every page either had me sad for the protagonists or laughing at the absurdity of what has been woven into a tapestry worthy of a movie. Not just English humor, but if one can’t laugh in situations as they arise, they need more laughter in their life. The book starts in London, then goes to Los Angeles and finally the Mediterranean. Between all of that, the meat of this book is ripe for the next reader.