Recommendations and Reviews

The Eyes of the Accused – My Review!!

I read Mark Tilbury’s debut novel, The Revelation Room. Because the book was so entertaining, I gave it 4.5 Stars (rounded to 5 Stars). When he released the second book of the Ben Whittle series, The Eyes of the Accused, it immediately went on my TBR list. Read on for my review!

Synopsis (from the author):

Fresh from the horrors of the Revelation Room, private investigators Ben and Maddie are plunged into a disturbing world of terror as they search for missing pregnant girl, Hannah Heath. Drawn to Frank Crowley, an original suspect in Hannah’s disappearance, Maddie is about to learn the true meaning of evil. But all is not what it seems. Crowley is just a small part of something unimaginable. Something so terrible and deranged it defies reason. After Maddie disappears, Ben is left in a desperate race against time to find her and uncover the truth.

What I liked:

Mark Tilbury creates another evil and twisted antagonist for Ben Whittle. Hannah’s character is believable as the kidnap victim. Geoff (Ben’s father), still recovering from his encounter with Edward Ebb (from Book 1) is he irascible self, and Maddie is as courageous and cute as ever. With flashes of Mr. Tilbury’s dark humor, interesting plot twists, and the blossoming romance between Ben and Maddie, The Eyes of the Accused is a worthy successor to The Revelation Room!

What I didn’t like:

In spite of how well written the book is, it drags in places, especially during Ben’s disagreements with Maddie and his father on Maddie’s involvement as an undercover operative.

Overall impression:

The Eyes of the Accused, like its predecessor, is a dark mystery thriller. Ben Whittle grows into his role, and Maddie is cute, spunky, and a delightful character. Hannah definitely engenders sympathy, and the villain is perfectly dark and twisted. If dark humor, and everyday evil is your thing, The Eyes of the Accused is a book for you!

My rating:

5 Stars   

Connect with the author:

Want to know more about Mark Tilbury and his books? Visit his site at marktilbury.com!

Connect with me:

If you liked (or disliked) my review, leave me a comment and let me know! We can also connect on social media on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads. You can also just email me at bill@williamlstuart.com.

Foreign Agent – My Review!

Before I launch into my review of Brad Thor’s latest thriller, I wanted to talk about his book signing I attended in June 2016 in the Atlanta area. As a member of the Atlanta Writers Club, I received notice about the event, and made time to attend. Now,  I confess I’ve only been to one other book signing for a well-known author (my own don’t count yet, but I’m working on it), and the staff herded us through the signing like cattle. Because of my impression of that event, I try to spend a few minutes with whoever wants to buy a book or simply talk during my signings.

That was the most impressive thing about this event. Brad Thor started the event at 7:30 and spoke for about 30 minutes. A portion discussed the new book, but a larger part took questions from the audience. I was the 41st person in line for the signing and I stood there for about an hour before I got my turn. Mr. Thor took a few minutes to sign my book , talk to me, and have a photo taken, too.

As an indie author, I probably won’t ever reach the audience Brad Thor has, but I learned a lot from this event. For that, thanks Brad Thor! Now on to my review!

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to attend Brad Thor’s book signing in the Atlanta area. I bought a copy of his latest thriller, Foreign Agent, listened to his presentation, and got the book autographed! I read the book and here is my review.

Synopsis (from the author):

Terrorism in Europe has spun out of control. The United States has decided on a dramatic response. Now, the CIA needs a very special kind of operative.

Scot Harvath has exactly the skills the CIA is looking for. He’s a former U.S. Navy SEAL with extensive experience in espionage. Working for a private intelligence company, he will provide the CIA, and more important, the President, with absolute deniability.

But deep within the Russian Caucasus, Moscow also has its own special kind of operative. As a child, Sacha Baseyev endured an unimaginable horror. Today, he lives and breathes for only one reason—to kill. And he will kill as many Americans as it takes to accomplish his mission.

When a clandestine American operations team is ambushed near Syria, all signs point toward a dangerous informant in Brussels. But as Harvath searches for the man, he uncovers another actor—a rogue player hell-bent on forcing America’s hand and drawing it into a confrontation deadlier than anyone could have imagined.

As the attacks mount, and terror is brought to the very doorstep of the White House, Harvath finds himself in the race of his life. From Vienna, Brussels, and Berlin, to Malta, Jordan, and Syria—he will push himself beyond the edge in order to confront one of the greatest evils the world has ever known.

What I liked:

As with the other Brad Thor novels I’ve read, Foreign Agent didn’t disappoint. The book starts with a bang and just keeps going full throttle. Scot Harvath is a familiar and amazing character, and Brad Thor skillfully blends real world headlines with his exploits. One of the best parts of this book is it can be read as a standalone or as the next installment of the series. Brad Thor frequently brings new characters into the fold, but still maintains the continuity of previous relationships. Foreign Agent is an excellent read, and one I highly recommend!

What I didn’t like:

The only criticism I have of Foreign Agent is one little thing. I have a thing about the word “snuck.” I don’t mind it in the dialogue, but in the narrative, it’s like hitting a reading speed bump. I counted it twice in this book. Not enough to detract from the book, but a tiny irritant.

Overall impression:

Foreign Agent by Brad Thor is a high-energy thriller. Filled with familiar characters doing what they do best, cool weaponry, and a story right out of today’s headlines, this book is a great read! I recommend it to anyone who loves thrillers, military action, and a good story!

My rating:

5 Stars

Connect with the author:

Have you read Foreign Agent by Brad Thor? What about his other books? If so, please consider leaving a review. If not, why are you waiting? And visit Brad Thor’s website to find all his books!!

Connect with me:

Have a comment about this review or my experience with Brad Thor’s book signing event? Leave the comment here, or contact me on social media. Find me on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads. If you prefer, just drop me an email at bill@williamlstuart.com. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to the blog and share with your friends!

Point Of No Return – My review!!

My last review dealt with Sasquatches, and this time I visit an English cozy mystery, Point Of No Return by Diana J. Febry. Mysteries are not normally my genre of choice, but I do like to branch out occasionally. Read on to find out my thoughts!

Synopsis (from the author):

The significance of the noose left hanging outside James Palmer’s barn is obvious to everyone in the village. When threats turn to violence DCI Peter Hatherall has to unmask a master of disguise determined to have their revenge.

What I liked:

Diana Febry’s characters are colleagues, friends, and something more. Since this isn’t the first book with Peter Hatherall and Fiona, I didn’t have the backstory of those two, but it made no difference. I could easily relate to them. The story, involving a suicide victim, a gentleman farmer (Palmer) and his wife, and the mysterious Emma, moves along nicely most of the time. The tale flows from the death of Digby (the suicide) to escalating and more frequent attacks on the farm from persons unknown. Peter Hatherall and Fiona follow the clues along twisty paths. But, can they solve the mystery before the stalker kills Palmer?

What I didn’t like:

Despite the pace of the story overall, there were a couple of slow spots. Additionally, I thought Daoma and Gordon’s parts were overplayed.

Overall impression:

Point of No Return by Diana J. Febry was a nice cozy mystery. Nicely written, with good pace, interesting characters, and plenty of twists to keep the reader interested, I would recommend this book to anyone who likes mysteries!

My rating:

4.5 Stars (rounded to 5)

Connect with the author:

Find out more about Diana J. Febry at her Amazon Author page or at her website. If you read Point Of No Return or any of Diana J. Febry’s other books, please consider leaving a review. I know Diana would be most appreciative!!

Connect with me:

Like the review? Dislike the review? Please feel free to leave comments, email me at bill@williamlstuart.com, or find me on social media. I’m on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads. I look forward to hearing from you!

Revived – My Review!!

I entered a brave new world for me with Revived (Snoqualmie Valley Sasquatch Book 1). I’ve read books about sparkly vampires, regular vampires, zombies, and werewolves, but this was my first foray into Sasquatches. The book pleasantly surprised me, though!

Synopsis (from the author):

When a mysterious friend reappears in the lives of cousins Hannah and Jenna, a haunting past is revived. Tragic loss and prejudices lead to a search for answers about ancient myths that thrive in the Snoqualmie Valley of Washington State.

Does modern science hold the key, or does the truth lie in something supernatural? Heartbreak and hope encourage an unlikely romance while drawing out the darkness of unexpected enemies.

Can the strength of the cousins’ bond protect them from a fearful future?

What I liked:

Who knew Sasquatches had such abilities? Super speed, the ability to disguise themselves, and a barrier between the human world and their own made this a cool story. The tragedy connecting Hannah, Jenna, and Adam provided a great background. In addition, the romance that blossomed between Adam and… oh wait, that might be a spoiler!

With good writing and a story that moved along at a nice pace, the book had enough interesting twists to keep me entertained. The family interaction among the Sasquatch tribe was pretty cool, too!

What I didn’t like:

Despite how well written the book was, I had a hard time relating to the characters. Maybe it was due to the almost human (though hairy) Sasquatches, but I had a little trouble getting into the story.

Overall impression:

I liked the story and it moved along quite nicely. The tragic background of the tale, the interaction among the characters, and the possibilities alluded to for subsequent books make Revived a book to consider. I recommend it to anyone who likes paranormal romance and Sasquatches!

My rating:

4 Stars

Connect with the author:

Interested in knowing more about J M Northup and her books? Find her on her Amazon Author Page or at her author website! If you read Revived or any of J M Northup’s other books, please consider leaving a review!

Connect with me:

Do you have feedback for me on this review? Please leave a comment, drop me an email at bill@williamlstuart.com, or connect with me on social media. You can find me on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads. I look forward to hearing from you!!

Silevethiel – My Review!!

I’m back in my favorite genre (fantasy), but wanted something new from an author I haven’t read. I saw Silevethiel by Andi O’Connor and thought it looked like a good read. I was correct!

Synopsis (from the author):

Following her father’s murder, Irewen is betrayed and left for dead in the forests of Mistwood. Rescued by an elf, Irewen awakes an exile with no home, no country, and no people. But as the horrific memories of murder and betrayal return, she realizes the nightmare is only beginning.

The world of Vaelinel is failing–its fate bound to her in ways no one fully understands. A mysterious elven prophecy may provide her with some answers, but continuously hunted and fighting for her life, Irewen quickly learns that unearthing the truth will be more difficult than she ever imagined.

Can she accept the friendship of the Wood Elves, or will she stand alone against the terrifying evil now threatening to destroy the entire world?

What I liked:

Silevethiel is a good read! The elves paired with the animals (Protector and Guardian) is a unique twist on characters, and Laegon’s Guardian has a few great lines. Laegon’s character is easy to relate to, and Irewen’s spoiled princess to warrior growth makes it interesting. Her cousin’s betrayal sets the stage for the story, and, though predictable, still provides intrigue. In addition, the evil spirits that attack the cave are a great enemy! The burgeoning romance between Irewen and Laegon adds a nice touch, while Irewen’s embrace of her heritage plays nicely into the ending and sets the stage for the next book.

What I didn’t like:

Though I understand the reason, the time spent in the cave dragged a bit for me. More time spent in Mistwood learning her heritage and discovering her abilities might help. A few of the developments are too predictable.

Overall impression:

Silevethiel is a nice read. The characters are well-developed and the story has enough twists and turns to keep it interesting. I enjoyed the banter between Laegon and his Guardian Bregen, and the fight scenes gruesome enough for most fantasy fans. I recommend this one to readers who enjoy elves, magic, and a little romance!

My rating:

4 Stars

Connect with the author:

Find out more about Andi O’Connor on her Amazon Author page or at her website. If you read Silevethiel (or any of Andi O’Connor’s other books), please consider leaving a review. I know she would appreciate it!

Connect with me:

If you want to connect with me, find me on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads. You can also drop me an email at bill@williamlstuart.com. I look forward to connecting!!

Dog Days of Karma by Jada Ryker!

I read Jada Ryker’s Pink Zombie with a Twist, a while ago and found myself with an open spot on my TBR. I looked for a more recent book by Jada and decided to try The Dog Days of Karma. Read on to find out my thoughts.

Synopsis (from the author):

Desperate to locate a missing person, Constance Twist decides to call a detective agency. Waiting for directory assistance and muttering to herself about karma, Constance jots down the address for the Carr—Maah Consulting Agency. On the way to the agency, Constance is shoved into traffic and nearly killed.

Celeste Carr is shocked when Constance storms into the office, demanding help. She tries to explain that Carr—Maah is a human resources consulting company, not a detective agency. Celeste grits her teeth when her mysterious business partner Ericka Maah overrules Celeste and forces her to take Constance’s case.

The killer rectifies the earlier error. Constance is brutally murdered as she leaves the agency.

Several hundred miles away, Jose is a restaurant manager and former agency employee. He helped Sonora escape her abusive husband by giving her a job and an apartment. After Sonora unexpectedly flees, Jose finds a hefty online reward for a lost dog. The posting shows Sonora’s image photoshopped with the picture of a dog. Jose follows Sonora’s trail back to his hometown and the Carr—Maah Consulting Agency.

Celeste, Ericka, and Jose, assisted by Hobart, the mysterious homeless man forced by Ericka to become the agency’s office manager, investigate. The clues lead them to a surfeit of viable suspects. His voice heated by the South African sun, Christoph Metre is the charismatic head of the rival consulting agency. Obsessed with the exotic Ericka, Christoph appears with his entourage in unexpected places, including the murder scene. Lovesick Mrs. Grant, in a one-sided relationship with Mr. Crispie, hated it when Constance Twist offered the spry widower lemonade with a Twist. Dr. Britta Spartan, head of the domestic violence shelter, writhes around Hobart like a predatory boa constrictor around a juicy mouse.

If Celeste and her friends can’t solve the mystery in time, they’ll be the next victims.

What I liked:

Jada Ryker writes in a conversational and easy to read way. Her characters are quirky, interesting, and have their own mysteries. For instance, who is Hobart Smith really? What late night activities go on while Hobart is upstairs? What childhood trauma did Celeste experience? These are but a few of the things to solve in this book. And, that doesn’t even include the actual murder the HR consulting firm reluctantly investigates. The Dog Days of Karma had enough action to keep me interested and the twists were fun.

What I didn’t like:

The only issue I had with the book was the ending. I thought it was rushed and tried too hard to tie the loose ends together.

Overall impression:

Dog Days of Karma was an interesting and enjoyable read. I liked the quirky characters, the various mysteries, and the action of the story. I would recommend this one to anyone who likes cozy mysteries!

My rating:

4.5 Stars (rounded to 5)

Connect with the author:

You can connect with Jada Ryker on her Amazon Author page or at her website. If you read Dog Days of Karma or any of Jada Ryker’s other books, please consider leaving a review. It helps authors know what people think of their work!

Connect with me:

Want to give me feedback on my review, please leave me a comment. I like to hear what you think. If you would rather connect with me on social media, I can be found on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads. You can also drop me an email at bill@williamlstuart.com.