Recently Read Books
Sharing New Books by Great Indie Authors
Welcome to my little library!
Having been a Chef, my source of creativity stemmed from other restaurants around me. In order for me to create new dishes, I loved dining at new places and enjoying the cuisine. Of course, I purchased cookbooks, watched my favorite Chefs and such. Echoing this process, I have that same philosophy as a writer today. My inspiration comes from appreciating other author’s books.
I have always been an avid reader. And I just about read anything. I do curtail my reading lists to suspense, thriller and horror books: Yes, I do enjoy the occasional romance, sci-fi and even fantasy books from time to time. Even some non-fiction! Reading is my escape where the author carries me into another world of discovery. As a writer, I appreciate the technical aspect of the book: How the chapters are laid out, how the story systemically unfolds and the book cover.
I share with you what I read because I hope you too will discover new worlds as well. Will I read the big New York Bestsellers people? Yes, but I won’t put them on here. They are already getting enough accolades…they don’t need anymore.
I will be sharing with you some indie writers worth mentioning. If you follow me on Twitter, I am firm believer of retweeting new books and authors to the world. As a result, I have discovered some quite influential, surprising and well written novels! Even better than some of the NYT Bestsellers.
Thus, I will share with you my review of the book along with its book cover and link to purchase.
Enjoy reading some new authors!
Russell
The Time It Takes to Blink by David Six
A brilliant, engrossing horror novel! ‘Blink’ is a tangled dark suspenseful story about a sinister killer leaving grisly displayed women. As a result, a retired detective, Bruno, is forced back on the case by his once partner, Salvanian, who desperately needs his input. Without giving any spoilers, ‘Blink’ takes the reader a deranged journey of madness that ends up in a fast-paced, twisted ending.
Having been stated, Six’s incredible writing draws the reader into his macabre world from page one. The author’s descriptions of the grisly murder scenes evoke breathtaking, gory visuals, leaving the reader wanting more afterwards. Even more, the interactions between the characters have a natural appeal as they discuss the case. Subtly yet beautifully, Six offers a glimpse of reality into these characters’ humanity such as Salvanian being both a lieutenant and a mother to young son. Even more, the author digs deep into the killer’s state of mind, revealing a kaleidoscope of sheer insanity and warping the mother-son relationship to whole other level. This is the book to read! I can’t wait to get my hands on Book 2! Fantastic!
Cast, Crew and Carnage: The Filming of Castlewood Manor by VC Barton
The series only gets better! ‘Cast, Crew and Carnage’ takes place months after the esteemed Castlewood estate wins the coveted prize for the sure to be hit television series. Even more, Gemma’s role has become more essential in order to the make the TV show successful. Told her point of view, the character explains the trials and tribulations of television production, describes the worldwide of high couture fashion…and encounters several moments of perilous danger! Not giving away any spoilers, ‘Cast, Crew and Carnage’ is a fantastic follow up novel that will leave the reader hanging on to the very end.
Having been stated, Barton beautifully describes the idyllic world of the English country side and juxtapositions it against the London cityscape. The author’s writing captivates and enthralls the reader through rich, glorious descriptions, detailing the beautiful women’s garments, succulent, tasteful dinners and the Castlewood estate. In fact, my favorite moment had been the balloon event which made me feel as if I was an actual participate. Additionally, Barton incorporates how the Royal family subtly establishes the hidden social class boundaries which forms how interactions of a commoner should properly act. After all said and done, I truly wish I could try some of that new sherry, because it would be a proper night cap to such a wonderful read. Can’t wait for the next part! Bravo!
The Vodka Wardrobe Part 4 by Sheila Patel
The ladies are back at it! Once again, Shaz and crew takes the reader a world wind of crazy events like royal weddings, down under, the World Cup just to name a few. All the while, meeting up in the bar and webcast to have plethora amounts of vodka. Seriously, this book had me rolling at times. The James Bond club is hilarious! Patel’s crisp brilliant writing offers a multitude of satirist political humor as she points out some peculiar social norms. In a way, the author holds a mirror to the world and asks if they can really see the prevailing obscurity. So loved this book! Had to have a Bloody Mary after I complete it…yeesh the hangover was surreal! Cheers!
The Wait for Shadows by Karl Holton
Picking up right where Book 1 ends, Holton’s second part in the series finds Benedict once again running through the streets of London (which seems like a tertiary character on its own). Plus, the reader quickly discovers deep hidden layers of who’s calling the shots once Jasper appears in the novel. As the snipper easily claims more victims, Benedict feverishly chases the clues with DI Wallace whose virtuous wit and grounded intelligence exposes even more secrets. Yet Benedict soon realizes his boss’s, Ray Hanson’s, involvement enhances the heightened tension to the very end of this compelling, fast paced thriller!
Holton does not disappoint in this next installment in the series. Brilliantly, the author captures the feverish emotion of the main character, Benedict, to a new level of frenzy. The crisp, snappy dialogue between the protagonist and other characters give more value and credibility to the storyline. In addition, Holton delivers on substantial, meaty secondary figures who contribute to the engrossing plot, echoing the likes of Clancy, Ludlum and Higgins. Not spoiling the end at all, the author leaves such a cliff hanger that I cannot wait to pick up Book 3.
The Logo’s Code by Duncan Simpson
Additional Information
What a climax to a whirlwind of a trilogy…and the action does not cease! Leading up to this point in the series, Blake has overturned some serious hurdles to hinder a secret society’s devious plans. In this final book, Blake realizes that he has not prevented any of the plans as he had perceived; instead, this time it will be the end of all. Joining forces with the enigmatic Mary, whom I loved throughout the other books, they tackle the diabolical society head on to prevent their plans to come to fruition.
Set in London, Simpson throws the reader directly into the busy, pedestrian filled streets, which captured me back in Book 1. Simpson’s crisp writing is absolutely breathtaking as the story gathers momentum towards the fast-paced, enthralling end. In addition, the author hints at his vast knowledge on English architecture and allows the reader to explore the city scape in wondrous awe. Most important, Simpson gives new life into his series characters (like Blake), and root for them along the way. I thoroughly enjoyed Simpson’s trilogy and felt lost when it ended. As I reader, I hope the author has more Blake novels down the pipeline. In any case, I will definitely be picking up Simpson’s next book.
Lenders: The Unlicensed Consciousness by Travis Bourne
What an epic piece of work! Lenders is a marvelous modern scifi thriller that warps reality. Simply in a nutshell, the story revolves around a character named Amy from childhood to adulthood in a murky, post-apocalyptic Earth. Yet, Borne does not make it that simple. Without any spoilers, the story winds through Amy’s past, present and even dream states while introducing a myriad of other characters—Jim, Herald, Jerry, Jon, Q, etc.—and ends up to an action filled, gripping finale.
Earnestly, Borne’s novel echoes an R.R.Martin quality in the overlapping depths of the text. The descriptive writing is rather detailed and the action scenes plunge the reader into the dark, striped landscapes of Earth. At the same time within the dream worlds, Borne provides a jaded even melancholic view of the modern world, indicating (or even daresay hinting) at mankind’s seemingly powerful stance over everything. More so, the concept of AI, which is becoming a reality, is truly the juggernaut of Borne’s piece: Would the human race relish in another free-thinking existence that are supposed equals? I applaud Borne for creating a dynamic, thought provoking piece that edges on the heels of reality.
Last Winter’s Taken by MJ LeBeff
Thrust into a wintry, deep freezing blizzard and approaching the holidays, Last Winter Taken opens with a gruesome murder of a pregnant mother that will leave you haunted for days to come. Because of this, Detective Rachael Hood and FBI Nick Draven are back on the case and determined to find the missing baby. Yet, Hood’s unique psychic abilities add a deeper darker dimension and throws her into a perilous pursuit to catch the ruthless killer.
Already with two previous installments which were exceptional, LaBeff does not fail at all and keeps the suspense ramped up. The crisp dialogue give deeper character development for both Rachael and Nick. Even still, the secondary characters lend credibility to the story itself. Also, the writing is spot on: Descriptions of murder scenes, the blizzard and the apartment allows the reader to be immersed in this obscure world of privilege. Utterly, this book (and series) was fantastic! I cannot wait for what happens next to Rachael and Nick. Beautifully done!
The Church Mouse by R.H.Hale
Attempting to describe the storyline of Hale’s Church Mouse would give away spoilers. Simply put, the reader is cast into Rona’s (the main character) point-of-view from the very first page. Rona’s hard life of solitude and destitute comes full circle as she is forced to accept a live-in cleaner position at her local church. However, to her dismay, the priest never explains the full extent of her duties. Rona soon learns of her true assignment as she encounters the other residents who reside in the lower dwellings of building.
The Church Mouse is a hauntingly, dark, elegant novel which will leave the reader to think for days to come. Hale’s writing is absolutely brilliant. The author’s style instantly captures you, gradually pulling you into a devious, murky world while at the same time giving you enough light to peer into the labyrinth of shadows. Being immersed in her character, Hale scintillatingly romanticizes and daresay taunts the reader about the horrible, despicable actions of the other residents, making you empathize with Rona each grueling step along the way. Seriously, I could not stop reading this book. I cannot wait to pick up the next book…I have to know what happens next to Rona. Bravo Hale for creating a horror novel must read!
Wrong Place Wrong Time by Dave P Perlmutter
Based on actual events of Perlmutter’s young life, “Wrong Place” strikes a nerve with the reader. He grabs a hold the reader immediately discussing an unfortunate circumstance that plays havoc on people in their twenties. Yes the dreaded drinking and driving scenario. But that’s not the whole story! The real turmoil occurs when he escapes to Spain to clear his head. Through a series of bad decisions and befriending questionable people, Perlmutter’s life becomes much more entangled with serious trouble. Yet, above all of this, his family’s love brings a great sense of hope for him despite the dire consequences.
“Wrong Place” is truly a captivating read which leaves the reader on the edge of suspense. Perlmutter’s well-developed narration of events gives true conviction and sincerity to the autobiographical story. In fact, his humbling honesty transcends many people’s lives who are currently dealing (or have dealt) with disastrous circumstances. Most of all, his confessional annotations pleasantly surprised me throughout the book as if it seemed Perlmutter was having a private conversation with the reader. I can’t wait to see the movie! Well Done!
The Crown for Castlewood Manor by Veronica Cline Barton
What a delightful treat! Told through the eyes of an intelligent Dr. Gemma Phillips, ‘Castlewood Manor’ first unfolds on the beaches of California and then sweeps the reader into the foothills of English countryside. On the surface, the story has an airy, light comfortable feeling through Gemma’s perception as she meets her English family and learns about her role in upcoming competition. However, the story brilliantly takes a darker leap as it becomes a murder mystery, echoing the likes of Agatha Christie.
‘Castlewood Manor’ successfully pulls the reader in page by page. Barton’s prose is incredibly perfected through the images of the English countryside, history of the manor and the character’s well-crafted dialogue. I enjoyed the subtleties within the concise, crisp details--such as Gemma touching her family heirloom dresses in the wardrobe closet--which brought an authentic richness to the story. In addition, Barton offers a spectacular glimpse into the British aristocracy. Her characters indirectly make it less pretentious, and pay homage to the English family histories. I truly enjoyed Barton’s novel from the very first page and I could not put it down. Like any great writer, Barton does leave beautiful breadcrumbs for future books in the series. Can’t wait to read Book 2!
Birth of a Spy by Duncan Swidells
“Birth of a Spy” is a truly an unique spy thriller the echo the likes of Ludlum and Higgins. Scott is an out of work college graduate and obsessed with Nazi decoding. Strangely, one day he receives a simple note through his mail containing a hidden message. Cracking the code to the message, his world quickly unravels and becomes a hunted man. The novels takes a series of gripping well-paced action sequences to a climatic end.
Swindells’s writing is breathtakingly luxurious, and describes scenes to a worthy richness. The author cleverly incorporates historical facts about World War II into the present in order for the protagonist to decode various messages. At the same time, Swindells sets the story in modern London through the gorgeous descriptions. In a way, the city can almost be considered to a tertiary character to the novel. A well done novel book that makes me what to pick up Swindells next one in the series. Great job!
Mafia Madame by Alexa Spagnoli
A terrific page turning debut novel! Spagnoli brings to life the dark underbelly of Las Vegas. Told through the eyes of her protagonist, Cyn, the novel intertwines the reality of Chicago based Mafia taking a hold of the bourgeoning town of Vegas. Cleverly, Cyn uses this factor to her advantage by marrying into the Family and creating unique adult entertainment venues through the eighties and nineties.
Spagnoli’s writing amazingly cements the story’s gripping suspense and action throughout the entire book. In one aspect, the author powerfully describes the history of the Mafia from its Chicago roots to Las Vegas, and how the Family deeply sinks their teeth into the casinos and governing councils through extortion and gambling. In another powerful yet subtle aspect, Spagnoli demonstrates how the protagonist becomes a fiercely strong businesswoman as she navigates through the upper ranks of a male dominated organization. A truly great book to keep the reader deeply engaged. Well done!
Red Ground: The Forgotten Conflict
A truly suspenseful story! In the war torn world of Central Africa, a ruthless brutal general is determined to dominate the land any way possible. Fry brings to life a dark, seemingly realistic story through strongly developed characters and graphic descriptions. Frankly, while this is a fictional piece, it could be pulled from current headlines. I was hooked from the first page and couldn’t put Fry’s grisly, fast paced thriller down. Brilliant work!
Last Fall's Hunted: The Last Cold Case #2
The suspense just ramps up! What a great follow up in the series. The descriptions are impeccable, the dialogue is crisp and the story takes on a new life. Most interestingly, LaBeff evolves the characters into a deeper, darker direction which were caused by the after effects of the first book. In fact, the main character, Rachael, becomes even more strung out while attempting to finding the sinister killer who has malevolent agenda. It is this unique dynamic brings forth the true mystical element of the story itself, which is a wonderful backdrop to everything else that takes place. It is a beautifully done yet subtle segue for the next one. Yep no spoilers here because you need to pick up LaBeff’s series. Can not wait for the next one!
In the Dark
Sensational quick read! With a series of vignettes, the reader will become encapsulated in well-developed characters’ lives. Because of this, Perez’s skillful and artful writing transcends the reader into macabre places of humanity and to an edge of true darkness. More so, the well-written, eloquent stories allows the reader to briefly peer into another malevolent world on another dimension. What a great short story novella!
The Weight of Shadows
Absolutely brilliant! This chilling fast-paced novel set mainly in London takes the reader on a whirlwind of a ride spanning a short period of time. Cleverly, Holton develops a handful of believable secondary characters that support the two engaging and strong main characters. Thus, The Weight of Shadows is a fantastic character driven book which makes the incredible storyline both darkly and sublimely realistic to the bitter end! Can’t wait for Hilton’s follow up book!
Hounded
A fast-paced twisted horror novel about the bourgeoning of a major apocalypse caused by a major virus outbreak. Yet the surprising side effect creates savage zombie canine to attack, maul and dismember humans. Pinned on survival, the story surrounds itself on two brothers in their own hellish worlds desperate to find each other while fighting off the undead dogs and seeing their loved ones succumb to the deadly virus. Great action, horrific scenes and credible characters allow Douglas to revamp the zombie genre to another level.
Femme Fatale
Seriously, you have to read this one! A fantastic intensely provocative novel about a private investigator on a case about a questionable missing person. As the story unfolds, a series of unusual leads takes the PI into another sinister directions. Being set in London, Piper’s writing, descriptions & brilliant protagonist makes the novel credible and beautifully realistic. Can’t wait to read more books by Piper...excellent job!
