Tag Archive | review

Heart of Evergreen!

Jan27

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New Review From Literary Titan

Heart of Evergreen by Mary L. Schmidt is a psychological thriller that masterfully delves into the unraveling life of Kim Dailey. A devoted wife, Kim’s seemingly perfect marriage takes a chilling turn when she discovers her name linked to a hit list on her husband Steve’s laptop. This revelation propels her into a whirlwind of doubt and fear, where every moment becomes a high-stakes journey to uncover the truth. As Kim confronts the possibility that her husband may be a covert assassin, the narrative explores themes of deception, resilience, and the lengths one will go to protect their family.

One of the novel’s standout strengths is its seamless blend of suspense, mystery, and romance. Schmidt crafts a deeply personal and intimate story, grounding the tension with the raw, emotional depth of her protagonist. Kim’s love for Steve, even amidst her mounting suspicion, and her compassionate observations of him as a father figure to her children, create a poignant duality that resonates. A particularly haunting moment arises when Dmitry’s death is contemplated—a scene so viscerally portrayed that it lingers long after reading. Schmidt juxtaposes the brutal finality of loss with the tenderness of grief, making it both heartrending and unforgettable. The story’s backdrop is a festive celebration overshadowed by the threat of an unseen assassin that creates gripping tension, while the richly layered characters bring authenticity and nuance to the narrative. The novel’s exploration of human relationships is deeply resonant, capturing moments of heartbreak, love, and hope with equal finesse. A notable strength lies in its portrayal of women’s resilience. Whether navigating life-altering choices or enduring harrowing trials, the women in Heart of Evergreen shine as embodiments of strength and grace. Balancing its weighty emotional themes are heartwarming glimpses of Kim’s moments of joy, particularly with her children. These scenes lend a warmth that counterbalances the darker aspects of the plot, offering moments of reprieve amidst the tension. The crescendo of the narrative, the poignant demise of Dmitry stands out as a masterfully written moment, weaving hope and heartbreak into an unforgettable climax.

Heart of Evergreen is an evocative tale that will captivate readers who enjoy romantic family sagas infused with elements of crime, desire, and emotional complexity. Fans of Ian McEwan’s Atonement will be drawn to its layered storytelling and profound exploration of the human spirit. This is a novel that lingers in the mind, leaving readers both moved and reflective.

Pages: 160 | ASIN : B0DR69LRC2 ~ Literary Titan

Verbiage From Literary Titan

Feb21

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Christmas in Evergreen: Heart of Evergreen by Mary Schmidt presents a riveting narrative centered around Kim Dailey’s profound personal upheaval. The story begins as Kim uncovers a shocking truth about her husband of five years, leading her into a vortex of emotional and physical danger. The discovery of her name atop her husband’s ominous hit list propels Kim into an unforeseen journey of survival and self-discovery.

The novel is captivating from the outset, with Schmidt’s meticulous writing effortlessly drawing the reader into Kim’s world. The intimate portrayal of Kim’s life with her husband, Steve, and the subsequent unraveling of their seemingly idyllic existence is both compelling and emotionally resonant. Schmidt’s narrative deftly navigates the complexities of betrayal and resilience, making Christmas in Evergreen a page-turner. Kim’s character is particularly engaging, her strength and vulnerability painted with a realistic brush. The suspenseful elements, particularly the looming threat of assassination, add a thrilling dimension to the plot. Schmidt’s ability to intertwine themes of suspense, romance, and mystery is noteworthy, crafting a story that is as much about self-discovery and new beginnings as it is about love and danger. The novel’s detailed settings and well-crafted dialogue enhance its immersive quality. Each character is rendered with depth, allowing readers to feel a genuine connection to their journeys. The twists and turns of the plot maintain a gripping pace, ensuring that readers remain engaged until the final page.

Christmas in Evergreen is a commendable work by Mary Schmidt, showcasing her talent for creating a multifaceted story that blends mystery, thriller, and romance elements. It is a recommended read for those who appreciate a story that skillfully combines suspense with emotional depth, set against the backdrop of a festive season. Schmidt’s next work is eagerly anticipated as she continues to establish herself as a versatile and skilled storyteller.

Pages: 165 | ASIN : B0CRGH8ZVY

The Crown for Castlewood Manor

Dec5

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From Amazon:

Let the competition begin!
The stately grounds are breathtaking, the country house is pristine, and a murderer lurks in the shadows.

From the desk of award winning, cozy mystery author, Veronica Cline Barton — a clever whodunnit sure to make your crowns spin.

2018 New Apple Awards – Official Selection: Mystery

“Fans of TV shows like Downton Abbey will no doubt be drawn in by the “everything old is new again” escapist fantasy of Gemma’s vivid and entertaining adventures in bucolic England.“ ~ KIRKUS REVIEWS

“A vibrant (country) manor tale with a striking protagonist!”

“Elegance, murder, romance, encapsulated in a well-written cozy mystery.”

American heiress, Gemma Lancaster Phillips lends her British cousin a hand when his country house estate competes for the set location of a highly anticipated, English television series. The grounds are manicured, the mansion is polished, and the servants are poised.

What Gemma doesn’t realize is that this competition is life or death, and someone is taking that challenge literally. The occupants of one home are killed in an automobile accident, and murder becomes a frequent occurrence at the other locations.

Who is behind the mayhem? Selection would be a major coup for both the estate and the community.

At first the other contestants seem to be likely suspects, but no one is quite certain as the tragedies continue. Could it even be Gemma’s beloved cousin Evan, the surviving heir to the Lancaster fortune, or Kyle, his best friend and estate manager?

With the Royal family in attendance at each event, the puzzle becomes a crucial one for Scotland Yard, and they enlist Gemma’s help to solve the mystery.

When the competition’s winner is announced on New Year’s Eve, will Gemma’s future be forever tied to her ancestral past?

“A beautiful, intelligent woman, a handsome love interest, grand manor, glittery affairs, murder and mayhem, and a mystery to unfold. What else can you ask for in this well-written, cozy mystery?”

Start the series now!

My Review:

What an awesome tale of murder, magic, love, mystery, romance, a ghost or two, the magic of royalty and Hollywood thrown into a mix of grand proportions fit for a king and queen. The opulence of an English manor hall decked out with more baubles and finery that rivals any castle, the lot of vintage clothing finely stored, the jewels and tiaras aplenty mixed with village life and real life of love, loss, jealousy, and intense rivalry makes for the perfect English romance, mystery, and muder. Did I write about the delectable foods? Five stars.