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Recommend this book:
Dreams and Illusions
A Gabrielle Dorian Mystery #1
Rebecca Olmstead
2025 Finalist
251 Pages
Check current price
Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Foram Vyas for Readers' Favorite
As a big fan of murder mysteries, I have to say Dreams and Illusions by Rebecca Olmstead is a real page-turner! The story centers around Gabrielle Dorian, who’s grappling with a crisis of faith after a series of personal tragedies. Just as she’s trying to make sense of her prophetic dreams and the losses she couldn’t prevent, she’s pulled into a new nightmare—her estranged sister is accused of murder. The plot thickens as Gabrielle races against time to uncover the truth and save her sister from a seemingly inevitable guilty verdict. The tension builds with each chapter, and I found myself deeply invested in Gabrielle’s quest. I was on the edge of my seat, worrying right alongside her as she navigated this emotional and suspenseful journey.
Rebecca Olmstead really knows how to build tension and develop her characters. Gabrielle is a strong, relatable protagonist whose struggles feel real and heart-wrenching. The author’s attention to detail adds depth to the story, making each twist more impactful and the stakes feel incredibly high. I especially enjoyed the mix of emotional highs and lows, which kept the narrative from becoming too predictable. The storyline is well-paced, balancing moments of intense drama with quieter, reflective scenes that add layers to the mystery and complexity to the characters. I found myself second-guessing every clue, and even now, I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment to see where Gabrielle’s journey will take her. If you’re a fan of thrillers with well-crafted characters, intricate plot twists, and plenty of suspense, Dreams and Illusions is definitely a book you should check out! It’s the kind of mystery that stays with you long after the last page is turned.
As a big fan of murder mysteries, I have to say Dreams and Illusions by Rebecca Olmstead is a real page-turner! The story centers around Gabrielle Dorian, who’s grappling with a crisis of faith after a series of personal tragedies. Just as she’s trying to make sense of her prophetic dreams and the losses she couldn’t prevent, she’s pulled into a new nightmare—her estranged sister is accused of murder. The plot thickens as Gabrielle races against time to uncover the truth and save her sister from a seemingly inevitable guilty verdict. The tension builds with each chapter, and I found myself deeply invested in Gabrielle’s quest. I was on the edge of my seat, worrying right alongside her as she navigated this emotional and suspenseful journey.
Rebecca Olmstead really knows how to build tension and develop her characters. Gabrielle is a strong, relatable protagonist whose struggles feel real and heart-wrenching. The author’s attention to detail adds depth to the story, making each twist more impactful and the stakes feel incredibly high. I especially enjoyed the mix of emotional highs and lows, which kept the narrative from becoming too predictable. The storyline is well-paced, balancing moments of intense drama with quieter, reflective scenes that add layers to the mystery and complexity to the characters. I found myself second-guessing every clue, and even now, I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment to see where Gabrielle’s journey will take her. If you’re a fan of thrillers with well-crafted characters, intricate plot twists, and plenty of suspense, Dreams and Illusions is definitely a book you should check out! It’s the kind of mystery that stays with you long after the last page is turned.
Recommend this book:
Just Dying to Glamp
April Nunn Coker
2025 Honorable Mention
293 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Just Dying to Glamp by April Nunn Coker is a thriller with a difference. After losing her husband, Mamie West decided she needed to get on with her life. Buying a vintage camper, she sets off on a glamping trip to Magnolia Bluff with the Gals Gone Glamping group, but her first trip doesn’t go quite as planned when one of the women is murdered. A cryptic note leads Mamie to investigate—after all, she doesn’t want to be the next victim. With Babs, her Boston Terrier, along for the ride, Mamie comes under the watchful eye of Nick Vandegan, a police officer in Magnolia Bluff. Can Mamie find the culprit before more campers lose their lives?
Just Dying to Glamp by April Nunn Coker is part of the long-running Magnolia Bluff series. This is packed with everything you need in a crime thriller—murder, romance, and a few secrets waiting to be uncovered. With plenty of twists and turns, this book will keep you on your toes; it's an easy read that holds your interest all the way through. You’ll find the characters very easy to like, even if you’ve not read any of the earlier books. That said, reading the entire series does give you a better insight into who they are, but this could easily be treated as a standalone story. Every character has their own strong personality, and they are all likable and relatable. With a bit of humor peppered throughout, this is the perfect read for a rainy afternoon, a wonderful way to while away a few hours by stepping into someone else’s life.
Just Dying to Glamp by April Nunn Coker is a thriller with a difference. After losing her husband, Mamie West decided she needed to get on with her life. Buying a vintage camper, she sets off on a glamping trip to Magnolia Bluff with the Gals Gone Glamping group, but her first trip doesn’t go quite as planned when one of the women is murdered. A cryptic note leads Mamie to investigate—after all, she doesn’t want to be the next victim. With Babs, her Boston Terrier, along for the ride, Mamie comes under the watchful eye of Nick Vandegan, a police officer in Magnolia Bluff. Can Mamie find the culprit before more campers lose their lives?
Just Dying to Glamp by April Nunn Coker is part of the long-running Magnolia Bluff series. This is packed with everything you need in a crime thriller—murder, romance, and a few secrets waiting to be uncovered. With plenty of twists and turns, this book will keep you on your toes; it's an easy read that holds your interest all the way through. You’ll find the characters very easy to like, even if you’ve not read any of the earlier books. That said, reading the entire series does give you a better insight into who they are, but this could easily be treated as a standalone story. Every character has their own strong personality, and they are all likable and relatable. With a bit of humor peppered throughout, this is the perfect read for a rainy afternoon, a wonderful way to while away a few hours by stepping into someone else’s life.
Recommend this book:
Half Agony, Half Hope
Jane Austen's Men Book 1
Joy Michelle Austin
2025 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Half Agony, Half Hope by Joy Michelle Austin reimagines Austen’s enduring themes through a gripping, faith-rooted thriller set in modern times. Centered on the soul-deep bond between two men who become family in all but name, the novel explores the trauma of abuse, the agony of silence, and the long road toward healing. Inspired by the steadfast Captain Wentworth of Persuasion and shaped by the contours of a chilling true story, the narrative follows a survivor’s path through unspeakable pain toward redemption. Austin weaves suspense, Christian conviction, and emotional authenticity into a taut, immersive journey of resilience, faith, and unwavering love in the face of darkness. The result is a story as harrowing as it is redemptive, as a portrait of endurance shaped by grace.
Author Joy Michelle Austin has a really interesting take on the popular characters of Austen’s world, and in particular, the author’s view on masculinity, but you don’t need to be an expert on the Regency author to enjoy this blend of psychological suspense and Christian inspiration that tackles hard truths with unflinching empathy. Whatever your background, coming to the new imagining of Wentworth and those he bonds with is an emotive experience; the emotional depth of the modern-day dialogue still sparks hints of Austen-like elegance and decorum, which is a nice fit with modern-day Christianity and the morals under the surface of the story. Fans of the literary greats will be able to draw some strong parallels with traditional storytelling, thanks to the author’s keen sense of themes and how the journey is organized. This is a compelling modern reinterpretation of Austenian heroism through a redemptive viewpoint and characters you just want to root for no matter what. Overall, Half Agony, Half Hope is a gripping and heartfelt read that I would highly recommend to fans of deeply moving thrillers that explore healing without shying away from real pain.
Half Agony, Half Hope by Joy Michelle Austin reimagines Austen’s enduring themes through a gripping, faith-rooted thriller set in modern times. Centered on the soul-deep bond between two men who become family in all but name, the novel explores the trauma of abuse, the agony of silence, and the long road toward healing. Inspired by the steadfast Captain Wentworth of Persuasion and shaped by the contours of a chilling true story, the narrative follows a survivor’s path through unspeakable pain toward redemption. Austin weaves suspense, Christian conviction, and emotional authenticity into a taut, immersive journey of resilience, faith, and unwavering love in the face of darkness. The result is a story as harrowing as it is redemptive, as a portrait of endurance shaped by grace.
Author Joy Michelle Austin has a really interesting take on the popular characters of Austen’s world, and in particular, the author’s view on masculinity, but you don’t need to be an expert on the Regency author to enjoy this blend of psychological suspense and Christian inspiration that tackles hard truths with unflinching empathy. Whatever your background, coming to the new imagining of Wentworth and those he bonds with is an emotive experience; the emotional depth of the modern-day dialogue still sparks hints of Austen-like elegance and decorum, which is a nice fit with modern-day Christianity and the morals under the surface of the story. Fans of the literary greats will be able to draw some strong parallels with traditional storytelling, thanks to the author’s keen sense of themes and how the journey is organized. This is a compelling modern reinterpretation of Austenian heroism through a redemptive viewpoint and characters you just want to root for no matter what. Overall, Half Agony, Half Hope is a gripping and heartfelt read that I would highly recommend to fans of deeply moving thrillers that explore healing without shying away from real pain.
Recommend this book:
Distant Contact
A Christian Action Suspense
D.I. Telbat
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
A diving expedition in Azerbaijan goes wrong for Wynter Caspertein and her partner, Ingram Thatcher, when their guide dies due to improper gear use. Concern gradually becomes outright fear as they discover the young man's true identity. Now, they are on the run, trying to escape retribution from a vengeful father backed by an Islamic extremist group. Wynter doesn't realize it yet, but her only hope of survival involves reaching out to her once-close family, including her brothers Titus, a renegade soldier of fortune wanted by several governments, and Rudy, a gentle giant with a love for nature. They must set aside old differences and work together to protect what they love in D.I. Telbat's Distant Contact.
In Distant Contact, D.I. Telbat draws inspiration from biblical references to portray a secretive Christian organization, adapting it to resonate with modern times. He uses a similar approach to world-building, depicting Christian persecution in a way that readers will recognize by referencing totalitarian regimes' efforts to suppress Christianity. The combat scenes feature non-lethal weapons that align with fundamental commandments, which will spark the interest of Christian action fans as they see how Titus and his fellow agents carry out their missions. Telbat keeps the dialogue straightforward, emphasizing carefully placed clues and subtle scriptural references designed to uplift readers and deepen their immersion in the story. He also includes accurate historical references to female Christian prisoners, which may make some readers uncomfortable, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail. He combines these elements with an evenly paced narrative to create a compelling adventure. This first installment of an intriguing series promises further excitement.
A diving expedition in Azerbaijan goes wrong for Wynter Caspertein and her partner, Ingram Thatcher, when their guide dies due to improper gear use. Concern gradually becomes outright fear as they discover the young man's true identity. Now, they are on the run, trying to escape retribution from a vengeful father backed by an Islamic extremist group. Wynter doesn't realize it yet, but her only hope of survival involves reaching out to her once-close family, including her brothers Titus, a renegade soldier of fortune wanted by several governments, and Rudy, a gentle giant with a love for nature. They must set aside old differences and work together to protect what they love in D.I. Telbat's Distant Contact.
In Distant Contact, D.I. Telbat draws inspiration from biblical references to portray a secretive Christian organization, adapting it to resonate with modern times. He uses a similar approach to world-building, depicting Christian persecution in a way that readers will recognize by referencing totalitarian regimes' efforts to suppress Christianity. The combat scenes feature non-lethal weapons that align with fundamental commandments, which will spark the interest of Christian action fans as they see how Titus and his fellow agents carry out their missions. Telbat keeps the dialogue straightforward, emphasizing carefully placed clues and subtle scriptural references designed to uplift readers and deepen their immersion in the story. He also includes accurate historical references to female Christian prisoners, which may make some readers uncomfortable, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail. He combines these elements with an evenly paced narrative to create a compelling adventure. This first installment of an intriguing series promises further excitement.
Recommend this book:
Gods In The Ruins
A Vatican Archives Thriller
E. R. Barr
2024 Honorable Mention
347 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite
In Gods in the Ruins: A Vatican Archives Thriller by E. R. Barr, the main character is a boy named Daniel Azar and his parents who are archaeologists. This story starts in 2003 and then changes to the present day and takes place all in only one month, February. Barr has woven a nail-biting story around the ancient city of Babylon and the main character Daniel who becomes a Catholic priest when he grows up. Barr weaves the lives of his characters so subtly into the story from the time Daniel was a child until he is in his twenties, as well as all the supporting characters that appear. The myths that surround the ancient city of Babylon are used to advantage, as well as using the keeper of the world's ancient books in the Vatican Library in Rome.
Gods in the Ruins: A Vatican Archives Thriller by E.R. Barr has been written with an unusual skill that holds your attention from the first page to the last. Barr brings to light the ancient ruins that have been excavated for centuries in such a vivid way that, when reading the book, you can actually feel as if you are there on site. Barr has introduced twists in the plot that start in Rome and move to the Middle East and end in Rome but, as each move takes place, you eventually find out how they all fit together and how all the characters are interwoven into the story. The author has taken the chaos that we find ourselves in today, with all the holy wars going on, and turned it into a stunning crime thriller with science fiction and magic that anyone new to the genre would be captivated by after finishing this book. It is not normally the type of book I read but I found that once I started, I could not put it down and thoroughly enjoyed it, especially the fact that you could not guess as to how it would end - that was the best. Thank you for a delightful book that kept me reading long past midnight.
In Gods in the Ruins: A Vatican Archives Thriller by E. R. Barr, the main character is a boy named Daniel Azar and his parents who are archaeologists. This story starts in 2003 and then changes to the present day and takes place all in only one month, February. Barr has woven a nail-biting story around the ancient city of Babylon and the main character Daniel who becomes a Catholic priest when he grows up. Barr weaves the lives of his characters so subtly into the story from the time Daniel was a child until he is in his twenties, as well as all the supporting characters that appear. The myths that surround the ancient city of Babylon are used to advantage, as well as using the keeper of the world's ancient books in the Vatican Library in Rome.
Gods in the Ruins: A Vatican Archives Thriller by E.R. Barr has been written with an unusual skill that holds your attention from the first page to the last. Barr brings to light the ancient ruins that have been excavated for centuries in such a vivid way that, when reading the book, you can actually feel as if you are there on site. Barr has introduced twists in the plot that start in Rome and move to the Middle East and end in Rome but, as each move takes place, you eventually find out how they all fit together and how all the characters are interwoven into the story. The author has taken the chaos that we find ourselves in today, with all the holy wars going on, and turned it into a stunning crime thriller with science fiction and magic that anyone new to the genre would be captivated by after finishing this book. It is not normally the type of book I read but I found that once I started, I could not put it down and thoroughly enjoyed it, especially the fact that you could not guess as to how it would end - that was the best. Thank you for a delightful book that kept me reading long past midnight.
Recommend this book:
Embers of Shadow
Ages of Malice, Book III
Lloyd Jeffries
2024 Bronze Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
In books one and two of the Ages of Malice series by Lloyd Jeffries, reporter Emery Merrick is offered a second chance at life, then introduced to Thaddeus Drake, who's actually the first murderer in the history of man: Cain. Assigned to a special report, Emery discovers Cain's immortality and links to the ancient past are made present. Emery's work on a precious biography turns out to be horrifically dangerous, with potential ramifications for the whole of humanity. Emery survives but is emotionally defeated. His former love, Rhyme, has married Cain and wants nothing more than to protect Emery, get her life back, and take down her hellish husband. Now, in book three, Embers of Shadow, we see the fight to free Rhyme from Cain, who continues growing in power by the second, and Emery's role in a war that has arrived with the Antichrist. The attacks on Emery and Rhyme and the implosion of humanity are threatened with obliteration at every angle.
I had the pure delight of reading both books one and two in the Ages of Malice series by the wildly talented Lloyd Jeffries, and eagerly anticipated Embers of Shadow. It should not come as any surprise that Jeffries continues to go from strength to strength with this powerful saga. It's difficult for me to tell a reader that book three could be read as a standalone, as it would certainly rob them of an exceptional build-up. At this stage, Emery, Rhyme, and Cain are all thoroughly developed. I love Emery's dogged pursuit to get the whole mess on paper in what feels like almost a follow-up to the Bible. Ancient history is coming to life in real time. It's terrifying, particularly as Jeffries paints a picture of both heaven and hell on Earth in near cinematic detail. To me, the real star is actually Rhyme, who is just a firecracker of a female protagonist. She is fiercely strong, retains her agency even as her husband stifles her life, and gets things done. As far as stories of the supernatural, the frailty and redemption of man, and themes that explode off the page, Jeffries gives as good as a reader can possibly get. Very highly recommended.
In books one and two of the Ages of Malice series by Lloyd Jeffries, reporter Emery Merrick is offered a second chance at life, then introduced to Thaddeus Drake, who's actually the first murderer in the history of man: Cain. Assigned to a special report, Emery discovers Cain's immortality and links to the ancient past are made present. Emery's work on a precious biography turns out to be horrifically dangerous, with potential ramifications for the whole of humanity. Emery survives but is emotionally defeated. His former love, Rhyme, has married Cain and wants nothing more than to protect Emery, get her life back, and take down her hellish husband. Now, in book three, Embers of Shadow, we see the fight to free Rhyme from Cain, who continues growing in power by the second, and Emery's role in a war that has arrived with the Antichrist. The attacks on Emery and Rhyme and the implosion of humanity are threatened with obliteration at every angle.
I had the pure delight of reading both books one and two in the Ages of Malice series by the wildly talented Lloyd Jeffries, and eagerly anticipated Embers of Shadow. It should not come as any surprise that Jeffries continues to go from strength to strength with this powerful saga. It's difficult for me to tell a reader that book three could be read as a standalone, as it would certainly rob them of an exceptional build-up. At this stage, Emery, Rhyme, and Cain are all thoroughly developed. I love Emery's dogged pursuit to get the whole mess on paper in what feels like almost a follow-up to the Bible. Ancient history is coming to life in real time. It's terrifying, particularly as Jeffries paints a picture of both heaven and hell on Earth in near cinematic detail. To me, the real star is actually Rhyme, who is just a firecracker of a female protagonist. She is fiercely strong, retains her agency even as her husband stifles her life, and gets things done. As far as stories of the supernatural, the frailty and redemption of man, and themes that explode off the page, Jeffries gives as good as a reader can possibly get. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
God's Colonel
An End Times Christian Novel
D.I. Telbat
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
Check current price
Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
America is no more. A series of artificial and natural disasters left the country on the edge of chaos. The New Roma Government is a force to be reckoned with on the continent as they try to restore their version of law and order. Emit Dross finds himself in the middle of this commotion; he acquires another man's identity and, by sleight of hand and brave actions, gets to control a garrison of the New Roma's standing army: the Global Security Forces. Emit's good deeds eventually haunt him when he begins piecing together the true motive behind these supposed saviors' actions. The young man must choose where he stands when he discovers the price for stability in D.I. Telbat's God's Colonel.
D.I. Telbat masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, hinting at an extinction-level event unfolding in America without explicitly stating it. These subtle references leave readers on the edge of their seats, eager to piece together the intricate details behind how things came to be so bad. The character development is exceptional. Emit's heroic actions at the civilian blockade paint him as someone who wishes to avoid needless violence at all costs, even going so far as to justify the New Roma government's initiatives in a way that will make readers reflect deeply on what they would do in his position. The way Telbat portrays the mark of the beast is remarkable; a digital interpretation that is believable and dramatic in contrast to popular culture. His delivery also begs the question of whether or not his concepts are already in use. His skillful portrayal of contemporary, flawed martyrs striving to do good makes for realistic dialogue between the characters, with whom readers will readily connect. God's Colonel has the most compelling end-of-the-world narrative I have ever read, thanks to Telbat's masterful storytelling and deliberate pacing. A masterpiece from a gifted writer.
America is no more. A series of artificial and natural disasters left the country on the edge of chaos. The New Roma Government is a force to be reckoned with on the continent as they try to restore their version of law and order. Emit Dross finds himself in the middle of this commotion; he acquires another man's identity and, by sleight of hand and brave actions, gets to control a garrison of the New Roma's standing army: the Global Security Forces. Emit's good deeds eventually haunt him when he begins piecing together the true motive behind these supposed saviors' actions. The young man must choose where he stands when he discovers the price for stability in D.I. Telbat's God's Colonel.
D.I. Telbat masterfully weaves a tale of suspense, hinting at an extinction-level event unfolding in America without explicitly stating it. These subtle references leave readers on the edge of their seats, eager to piece together the intricate details behind how things came to be so bad. The character development is exceptional. Emit's heroic actions at the civilian blockade paint him as someone who wishes to avoid needless violence at all costs, even going so far as to justify the New Roma government's initiatives in a way that will make readers reflect deeply on what they would do in his position. The way Telbat portrays the mark of the beast is remarkable; a digital interpretation that is believable and dramatic in contrast to popular culture. His delivery also begs the question of whether or not his concepts are already in use. His skillful portrayal of contemporary, flawed martyrs striving to do good makes for realistic dialogue between the characters, with whom readers will readily connect. God's Colonel has the most compelling end-of-the-world narrative I have ever read, thanks to Telbat's masterful storytelling and deliberate pacing. A masterpiece from a gifted writer.
Recommend this book:
No Turning Back
Witness Protection Book 3
H. L. Wegley
2024 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Essien Asian for Readers' Favorite
Members of the Del Rio drug cartel destroyed Elizabeth Sanchez's village seven years ago in an attempt to set an example for other towns that defied their brutal rule. All her family members perished that day except her. After learning that someone survived his vengeance-fueled massacre, Hector Suarez sets out to eliminate the last surviving Hernandez family member. Drew West, a writer suffering from severe writer's block, becomes entangled in this conflict when, while out hiking, he saves Elizabeth from Hector and his goons. Drew decides to protect this lovely girl at all costs, but before making such a risky move, the practical young man must banish some ghosts. Drew and Elizabeth are about to discover how determined Hector can be in H.L. Wegley's No Turning Back.
H.L. Wegley creates continuity in this installment of the Witness Protection series by subtly referencing the beginnings of Elizabeth and Hector's conflict, making it easier for readers to dive right into this gripping adventure. The narrative is simple to follow, and the fast pace evokes the sense of an end-to-end adventure where deft decision-making and astute puzzle-solving could mean the difference between life and death. Wegley emphasizes the value of Christian morality throughout the adventure; perhaps the most notable instance is the passionate scene involving Elizabeth and Drew, which culminates in their first kiss but ends before it gets too close for comfort for conservative readers. A remarkable amount of attention to detail is used in the fight scenes to make the entire adventure seem as realistic as possible. Wegley's clever use of wordplay, particularly with Drew's name and that of the ranch and the Dodge incident, lends a lighthearted tone to an action-packed novel. Action and adventure lovers will enjoy reading No Turning Back.
Members of the Del Rio drug cartel destroyed Elizabeth Sanchez's village seven years ago in an attempt to set an example for other towns that defied their brutal rule. All her family members perished that day except her. After learning that someone survived his vengeance-fueled massacre, Hector Suarez sets out to eliminate the last surviving Hernandez family member. Drew West, a writer suffering from severe writer's block, becomes entangled in this conflict when, while out hiking, he saves Elizabeth from Hector and his goons. Drew decides to protect this lovely girl at all costs, but before making such a risky move, the practical young man must banish some ghosts. Drew and Elizabeth are about to discover how determined Hector can be in H.L. Wegley's No Turning Back.
H.L. Wegley creates continuity in this installment of the Witness Protection series by subtly referencing the beginnings of Elizabeth and Hector's conflict, making it easier for readers to dive right into this gripping adventure. The narrative is simple to follow, and the fast pace evokes the sense of an end-to-end adventure where deft decision-making and astute puzzle-solving could mean the difference between life and death. Wegley emphasizes the value of Christian morality throughout the adventure; perhaps the most notable instance is the passionate scene involving Elizabeth and Drew, which culminates in their first kiss but ends before it gets too close for comfort for conservative readers. A remarkable amount of attention to detail is used in the fight scenes to make the entire adventure seem as realistic as possible. Wegley's clever use of wordplay, particularly with Drew's name and that of the ranch and the Dodge incident, lends a lighthearted tone to an action-packed novel. Action and adventure lovers will enjoy reading No Turning Back.
Recommend this book:
Prophet Reborn
Book Two (Perfect Prophet 2)
Diane M. Johnson
2023 Finalist
374 Pages
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Prophet Reborn is a work of fiction in the horror, thriller and suspense sub-genres, and was penned by author Diane M. Johnson. In the second novel of a continuing series, we join the action where Perfect Prophet leaves off, and once again the book does contain adult content, including brief sexual scenes and some graphic violence and explicit language. We find Lucas as a failed satanic high priest, and his search for redemption takes him to a Christian commune where he tries to prove his worth. But things take a turn for the worse very quickly, and Lucas’s shot at redemption gets as warped as his own morals, endangering himself and others in the process.
Author Diane M. Johnson has created a highly engaging and disturbing horror novel that ticks plenty of boxes for fans of the genre. One of the things I particularly liked about this novel was the close psychological focus on the central figure, which allows us to get into his head and see where things are going to go wrong even before they happen. This creates a wonderful sense of dread which, combined with the use of imagery and disturbing themes, gives you an edge-of-your-seat feeling throughout the reading process. I also felt that the dialogue was particularly impactful, revealing much about character but also moving the plot on with some very memorable and dynamic scenes. Overall, I would definitely recommend Prophet Reborn for fans of the first book in the series, but also for intense horror fans in general.
Prophet Reborn is a work of fiction in the horror, thriller and suspense sub-genres, and was penned by author Diane M. Johnson. In the second novel of a continuing series, we join the action where Perfect Prophet leaves off, and once again the book does contain adult content, including brief sexual scenes and some graphic violence and explicit language. We find Lucas as a failed satanic high priest, and his search for redemption takes him to a Christian commune where he tries to prove his worth. But things take a turn for the worse very quickly, and Lucas’s shot at redemption gets as warped as his own morals, endangering himself and others in the process.
Author Diane M. Johnson has created a highly engaging and disturbing horror novel that ticks plenty of boxes for fans of the genre. One of the things I particularly liked about this novel was the close psychological focus on the central figure, which allows us to get into his head and see where things are going to go wrong even before they happen. This creates a wonderful sense of dread which, combined with the use of imagery and disturbing themes, gives you an edge-of-your-seat feeling throughout the reading process. I also felt that the dialogue was particularly impactful, revealing much about character but also moving the plot on with some very memorable and dynamic scenes. Overall, I would definitely recommend Prophet Reborn for fans of the first book in the series, but also for intense horror fans in general.
Recommend this book:
Birds in the Black Water
A Dark, Paranormal Drama
Kodie Van Dusen
2023 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Christian - Thriller
Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite
Birds in the Black Water by Kodie Van Dusen is a supernatural tale that is as suspenseful and intriguing as it is introspective. This is the story of Neviah. Ever since she was a child, she has been able to see a dark world known as the Other Side, where shadowy figures dwell and are ever vigilant. It is a place of many things, but forgiveness is not one of them. She uses this access to build a thriving counseling practice, but deep-seated guilt continues to haunt her after a professional decision 10 years before resulted in a client named Martha being placed in protective custody. Now a young boy comes to her, introducing himself as Martha’s son. This allows Neviah to rectify her error. This proves to be challenging because the shadowy figures are on the move, and they are bent on destroying Neviah by getting to her loved ones.
Most of the action in this supernatural tale is related by way of conversations. The protagonist is a professional counselor and talking to people is an essential part of her job. This gives you a low-key feeling at the beginning, and then it jolts you into awareness as you move along with the plot. I am personally fascinated by the idea of the Other Side. As Kodie Van Dusen wrote this tale after losing a loved one, this may well be her figurative interpretation of the human psyche where feelings and thoughts come to dwell during times of loss, grief, and confusion. This is what makes Birds in the Black Water a brilliant psychological and supernatural tale that you don’t find every day. It’s a powerful story about loss, guilt, and renewal. This story strongly establishes these themes with its readers because we’ve all been there at some point. It’s a sure-fire must-read.
Birds in the Black Water by Kodie Van Dusen is a supernatural tale that is as suspenseful and intriguing as it is introspective. This is the story of Neviah. Ever since she was a child, she has been able to see a dark world known as the Other Side, where shadowy figures dwell and are ever vigilant. It is a place of many things, but forgiveness is not one of them. She uses this access to build a thriving counseling practice, but deep-seated guilt continues to haunt her after a professional decision 10 years before resulted in a client named Martha being placed in protective custody. Now a young boy comes to her, introducing himself as Martha’s son. This allows Neviah to rectify her error. This proves to be challenging because the shadowy figures are on the move, and they are bent on destroying Neviah by getting to her loved ones.
Most of the action in this supernatural tale is related by way of conversations. The protagonist is a professional counselor and talking to people is an essential part of her job. This gives you a low-key feeling at the beginning, and then it jolts you into awareness as you move along with the plot. I am personally fascinated by the idea of the Other Side. As Kodie Van Dusen wrote this tale after losing a loved one, this may well be her figurative interpretation of the human psyche where feelings and thoughts come to dwell during times of loss, grief, and confusion. This is what makes Birds in the Black Water a brilliant psychological and supernatural tale that you don’t find every day. It’s a powerful story about loss, guilt, and renewal. This story strongly establishes these themes with its readers because we’ve all been there at some point. It’s a sure-fire must-read.
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