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Recommend this book:
Dark Secrets of the Bayou
Kim Carter
2021 Finalist
476 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Dark Secrets of the Bayou is a work of fiction in the murder mystery genre. It is aimed at all ages and was penned by author Kim Carter. The novel follows the homecoming of attorney Tink Mabry as she visits Kane, Louisiana with a co-worker to deal with the dilapidated homestead she’s just inherited from the family she barely knows. No sooner has she arrived, however, than she ends up as the prime suspect of multiple murder investigations. As Tink explores her new surroundings she begins to realize that the family secrets that plague her inheritance may hold the key to exonerating her, though some things are best left in the past.
Author Kim Carter has crafted a sinister and spine-tingling work of dark mystery fiction which is an ideal read for a cold winter’s night. This story really combined so many elements and genres that I adore, from the historical references to the 19th century and the creepy, dark expanses of the Louisiana bayous, through to chilling, horror, and family drama elements. The complex plot interweaves all of these factors seamlessly, delivering a smoothly-told narrative with sharp, exciting deviations in the mystery plot. It certainly kept me guessing until the end, and the close narration of Tink and her emotional journey really got me rooting for her (and fearing for her) as the story developed. Overall, I would highly recommend Dark Secrets of the Bayou for those who enjoy a dark mystery with lots of horror elements and a spellbinding atmosphere. This was a worthy introduction to an author worth reading again and again.
Dark Secrets of the Bayou is a work of fiction in the murder mystery genre. It is aimed at all ages and was penned by author Kim Carter. The novel follows the homecoming of attorney Tink Mabry as she visits Kane, Louisiana with a co-worker to deal with the dilapidated homestead she’s just inherited from the family she barely knows. No sooner has she arrived, however, than she ends up as the prime suspect of multiple murder investigations. As Tink explores her new surroundings she begins to realize that the family secrets that plague her inheritance may hold the key to exonerating her, though some things are best left in the past.
Author Kim Carter has crafted a sinister and spine-tingling work of dark mystery fiction which is an ideal read for a cold winter’s night. This story really combined so many elements and genres that I adore, from the historical references to the 19th century and the creepy, dark expanses of the Louisiana bayous, through to chilling, horror, and family drama elements. The complex plot interweaves all of these factors seamlessly, delivering a smoothly-told narrative with sharp, exciting deviations in the mystery plot. It certainly kept me guessing until the end, and the close narration of Tink and her emotional journey really got me rooting for her (and fearing for her) as the story developed. Overall, I would highly recommend Dark Secrets of the Bayou for those who enjoy a dark mystery with lots of horror elements and a spellbinding atmosphere. This was a worthy introduction to an author worth reading again and again.
Recommend this book:
Murder in the Crypt
A Redmond and Haze Mystery Book 1 (Redmond and Haze Mysteries)
Irina Shapiro
2021 Honorable Mention
280 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite
Murder in the Crypt by Irina Shapiro is Book 1 of the Redmond and Haze Mysteries. Parish Constable Daniel Haze has his first solo murder case to solve when a body is found inside a medieval knight’s tomb. Just before the murder, a stranger appeared in the town, and, naturally, he is the first suspect. A former army captain and a surgeon, American Jason Redmond soon proves helpful to Haze and, innocent of the crime, is prepared to put his own life on the line to help solve the murder. Time is running out though; Haze and Redmond have no clues, no motive, and no suspects. Can they solve this before one of them falls victim to the murderer?
Murder in the Crypt: Redmond and Haze Mysteries Book 1 by Irina Shapiro is set in the UK around the time the US Civil War ended. It is something a bit different from your standard murder mystery; instead of knowing all the details upfront, the clues are drip-fed to us throughout the story, each one taking us a step closer to the truth. And yes, there are some red herrings and plenty of twists and turns and they all keep you on your toes. The characters are wonderful, so well-developed that you feel you know them personally. They each have their own personalities and you can easily relate to them. With plenty of action, this book will keep you guessing all the way through. I really enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the next one in the series.
Murder in the Crypt by Irina Shapiro is Book 1 of the Redmond and Haze Mysteries. Parish Constable Daniel Haze has his first solo murder case to solve when a body is found inside a medieval knight’s tomb. Just before the murder, a stranger appeared in the town, and, naturally, he is the first suspect. A former army captain and a surgeon, American Jason Redmond soon proves helpful to Haze and, innocent of the crime, is prepared to put his own life on the line to help solve the murder. Time is running out though; Haze and Redmond have no clues, no motive, and no suspects. Can they solve this before one of them falls victim to the murderer?
Murder in the Crypt: Redmond and Haze Mysteries Book 1 by Irina Shapiro is set in the UK around the time the US Civil War ended. It is something a bit different from your standard murder mystery; instead of knowing all the details upfront, the clues are drip-fed to us throughout the story, each one taking us a step closer to the truth. And yes, there are some red herrings and plenty of twists and turns and they all keep you on your toes. The characters are wonderful, so well-developed that you feel you know them personally. They each have their own personalities and you can easily relate to them. With plenty of action, this book will keep you guessing all the way through. I really enjoyed this story and am looking forward to the next one in the series.
Recommend this book:
A Dangerous Pursuit
Regency Spies & Secrets Book 1
Laura Beers
2021 Bronze Medal
292 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
In A Dangerous Pursuit: Regency Spies & Secrets Book 1, Lord Hawthorn, Baldwin Radcliffe, returns to England after three years undercover in France. He warns his handler of a French spy who traveled to England for nefarious reasons and sets out to search for the radicals the spy intends to use. Lady Madalene Dowding is an heiress who plays by her own rules. She and her companion have come to London for some business. Madalene looks in on her orphanage, run by a school friend of hers. When this friend disappears, Lady Madalene takes it upon herself to seek out the woman’s mother and sister in an unsafe part of town, where she runs into Baldwin, Earl Hawthorne. Both Madalene and Baldwin swear that they will never marry, but as they become tangled up in a conspiracy that could spark a revolution, they both must make a decision about their loyalties. Will Madalene succumb to love, and what will Baldwin choose when faced with a choice between love and the Crown?
A Dangerous Pursuit by Laura Beers is a Clean Regency suspense romance. Laura Beers has written a Regency novel with an intriguing plot and interesting characters. She succeeds in keeping the reader connected to the story and does not fail to surprise. Some of the themes touched upon in A Dangerous Pursuit are human trafficking and placing the good of the Crown before one’s personal life and its effect on families. This is a clean book with no profanity or sexual content. A Dangerous Pursuit is different from other Regency romances.
In A Dangerous Pursuit: Regency Spies & Secrets Book 1, Lord Hawthorn, Baldwin Radcliffe, returns to England after three years undercover in France. He warns his handler of a French spy who traveled to England for nefarious reasons and sets out to search for the radicals the spy intends to use. Lady Madalene Dowding is an heiress who plays by her own rules. She and her companion have come to London for some business. Madalene looks in on her orphanage, run by a school friend of hers. When this friend disappears, Lady Madalene takes it upon herself to seek out the woman’s mother and sister in an unsafe part of town, where she runs into Baldwin, Earl Hawthorne. Both Madalene and Baldwin swear that they will never marry, but as they become tangled up in a conspiracy that could spark a revolution, they both must make a decision about their loyalties. Will Madalene succumb to love, and what will Baldwin choose when faced with a choice between love and the Crown?
A Dangerous Pursuit by Laura Beers is a Clean Regency suspense romance. Laura Beers has written a Regency novel with an intriguing plot and interesting characters. She succeeds in keeping the reader connected to the story and does not fail to surprise. Some of the themes touched upon in A Dangerous Pursuit are human trafficking and placing the good of the Crown before one’s personal life and its effect on families. This is a clean book with no profanity or sexual content. A Dangerous Pursuit is different from other Regency romances.
Recommend this book:
In the Shadow of Gold
A Tale of the Lost Confederate Treasure
Michael Kenneth Smith
2021 Silver Medal
295 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
In The Shadow Of Gold by Michael Kenneth Smith is a historical fiction novel about lost Confederate treasure set in the 19th century. When Jonas Arvin asks his associate, Klinger, to dig up the source of his family fortune, his investigation reveals a long-lost tale of Confederate treasure during the end days of the American Civil War. After Yancey Arvindale joins the United States Naval Academy against his wishes, he finds the perfect opportunity to create his own destiny when Jefferson Davis collects all the Confederate treasure and places it in the hands of the midshipmen for protection. Biding his time, Yancey steals the gold bit by bit and buries it in different places to recover later. However, he finds his true purpose in life the day he meets a runaway slave named Ellie.
Filled with romance, heartbreak, and compassion, In The Shadow Of Gold is a riveting novel that will woo lovers of historical fiction with a tale of human ingenuity and perseverance. Author Michael Kenneth Smith tells a poignant story showcasing the plight of freed slaves who faced appalling discrimination and hardship even after the end of the Civil War. I found the characters thoroughly engrossing. Yancey and Ellie steal every scene they are involved in, but I also enjoyed the minor characters such as Roy and Jonas. The narrative is well-paced, and the plot moves in unexpected ways to keep you on your toes. If you enjoy intimate stories that incorporate major historical events, you're going to love In The Shadow Of Gold.
In The Shadow Of Gold by Michael Kenneth Smith is a historical fiction novel about lost Confederate treasure set in the 19th century. When Jonas Arvin asks his associate, Klinger, to dig up the source of his family fortune, his investigation reveals a long-lost tale of Confederate treasure during the end days of the American Civil War. After Yancey Arvindale joins the United States Naval Academy against his wishes, he finds the perfect opportunity to create his own destiny when Jefferson Davis collects all the Confederate treasure and places it in the hands of the midshipmen for protection. Biding his time, Yancey steals the gold bit by bit and buries it in different places to recover later. However, he finds his true purpose in life the day he meets a runaway slave named Ellie.
Filled with romance, heartbreak, and compassion, In The Shadow Of Gold is a riveting novel that will woo lovers of historical fiction with a tale of human ingenuity and perseverance. Author Michael Kenneth Smith tells a poignant story showcasing the plight of freed slaves who faced appalling discrimination and hardship even after the end of the Civil War. I found the characters thoroughly engrossing. Yancey and Ellie steal every scene they are involved in, but I also enjoyed the minor characters such as Roy and Jonas. The narrative is well-paced, and the plot moves in unexpected ways to keep you on your toes. If you enjoy intimate stories that incorporate major historical events, you're going to love In The Shadow Of Gold.
Recommend this book:
The Lost Symphony
Jack Rogan Mysteries Book 6
Gabriel Farago
2021 Gold Medal
525 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite
The Lost Symphony: A Historical Mystery Thriller is the sixth book in the Jack Rogan Mysteries by Gabriel Farago, and you don’t need to have read the previous books in the series to enjoy this spellbinding story. Jack Rogan is an Australian journalist who inherits an old music box. A letter is hidden inside the box. When he decides to find out more about the music box, he quickly becomes entangled with powerful people who are after what he has — an art dealer, Frieda Malenkova, will kill for it and a billionaire, Victor Sokolov, will stop at nothing to have it. Jack knows very little and that alone is frustrating and dangerous. As he digs deeper, with the help of Mademoiselle Darrieux and Claude Dupree, a retired French police officer, he realizes that he is in very dangerous waters. His journey unearths deep truths about a murdered tsarina and a relic that belongs to the heart of a revered tradition. Can he do what is right before someone else takes his life?
If you love stories that are well-plotted and characters that are unforgettable, then The Lost Symphony: A Historical Mystery Thriller is a must-read for you. Gabriel Farago is a terrific writer with a unique gift for plot and character. The author picks a seemingly insignificant relic and transforms it into an element that takes center-stage in a mysterious tale. Jack is a character that I adored and his curiosity, coupled with a hunger for truth, places him in an enviable, yet dangerous path where betrayal and greed are commonplace. The author weaves strong elements of history into the story, bringing to life rich Russian culture, creating characters with solid backgrounds, and skillfully developing a setting that feels both real and frightening. The narrative is filled with mystery, overflowing with action, and leads readers on a ride that is bursting with uncertainty. I enjoyed everything about this book, and the authorial prowess glows in this tale.
The Lost Symphony: A Historical Mystery Thriller is the sixth book in the Jack Rogan Mysteries by Gabriel Farago, and you don’t need to have read the previous books in the series to enjoy this spellbinding story. Jack Rogan is an Australian journalist who inherits an old music box. A letter is hidden inside the box. When he decides to find out more about the music box, he quickly becomes entangled with powerful people who are after what he has — an art dealer, Frieda Malenkova, will kill for it and a billionaire, Victor Sokolov, will stop at nothing to have it. Jack knows very little and that alone is frustrating and dangerous. As he digs deeper, with the help of Mademoiselle Darrieux and Claude Dupree, a retired French police officer, he realizes that he is in very dangerous waters. His journey unearths deep truths about a murdered tsarina and a relic that belongs to the heart of a revered tradition. Can he do what is right before someone else takes his life?
If you love stories that are well-plotted and characters that are unforgettable, then The Lost Symphony: A Historical Mystery Thriller is a must-read for you. Gabriel Farago is a terrific writer with a unique gift for plot and character. The author picks a seemingly insignificant relic and transforms it into an element that takes center-stage in a mysterious tale. Jack is a character that I adored and his curiosity, coupled with a hunger for truth, places him in an enviable, yet dangerous path where betrayal and greed are commonplace. The author weaves strong elements of history into the story, bringing to life rich Russian culture, creating characters with solid backgrounds, and skillfully developing a setting that feels both real and frightening. The narrative is filled with mystery, overflowing with action, and leads readers on a ride that is bursting with uncertainty. I enjoyed everything about this book, and the authorial prowess glows in this tale.
Recommend this book:
Strike!
John Klawitter
2020 Finalist
352 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite
Settling a debt of family honor, a wealthy Italian World War I veteran journeys to America and becomes embroiled in a war between the employees and their corporation in the stunning historical mystery, Strike! by John Klawitter. After the Great War, Anthony Anselmo's grandfather charges him with the responsibility of remunerating the war widows whose husbands fought in their family sponsored military unit. The last one on Anthony's list lives near Chicago. Leaving behind his disapproving father and their family business, Anthony travels to America. However, feeling responsible for the death of the young soldier, he procrastinates in concluding his quest. To have something to do in the meantime, Anthony takes a job at the local steel mill for a mere eighteen cents an hour. Confounded by the strenuous labor and hazardous working conditions the employees endure, with so little compensation, Anthony joins his new friends and co-workers in a grim battle to bring about necessary changes. While the situation at the steel mill is intensifying, in Italy the Anselmo family is under siege, and someone is out for blood. Will the trouble follow Anthony across the ocean? Between the menacing unscrupulous strikebreakers and the assassin on his trail, can Anthony elude death and finally begin to live for himself?
Intrigue and mystery are at the heart of the brilliant novel Strike! by John Klawitter. Set in the 1920s, the engaging characters, intriguing storyline, and the complex and exciting plot create a spellbinding story. Beautifully written, the mystery is gradually revealed, teasing the reader along. Totally caught up in the drama of each character's life, I didn't want to miss a word; I couldn't put the book down until the very satisfying conclusion. I loved every aspect of the story but was especially fascinated by the historical facets of the plot. This riveting novel will delight those who enjoy intriguing mysteries depicting early twentieth-century industrial America.
Settling a debt of family honor, a wealthy Italian World War I veteran journeys to America and becomes embroiled in a war between the employees and their corporation in the stunning historical mystery, Strike! by John Klawitter. After the Great War, Anthony Anselmo's grandfather charges him with the responsibility of remunerating the war widows whose husbands fought in their family sponsored military unit. The last one on Anthony's list lives near Chicago. Leaving behind his disapproving father and their family business, Anthony travels to America. However, feeling responsible for the death of the young soldier, he procrastinates in concluding his quest. To have something to do in the meantime, Anthony takes a job at the local steel mill for a mere eighteen cents an hour. Confounded by the strenuous labor and hazardous working conditions the employees endure, with so little compensation, Anthony joins his new friends and co-workers in a grim battle to bring about necessary changes. While the situation at the steel mill is intensifying, in Italy the Anselmo family is under siege, and someone is out for blood. Will the trouble follow Anthony across the ocean? Between the menacing unscrupulous strikebreakers and the assassin on his trail, can Anthony elude death and finally begin to live for himself?
Intrigue and mystery are at the heart of the brilliant novel Strike! by John Klawitter. Set in the 1920s, the engaging characters, intriguing storyline, and the complex and exciting plot create a spellbinding story. Beautifully written, the mystery is gradually revealed, teasing the reader along. Totally caught up in the drama of each character's life, I didn't want to miss a word; I couldn't put the book down until the very satisfying conclusion. I loved every aspect of the story but was especially fascinated by the historical facets of the plot. This riveting novel will delight those who enjoy intriguing mysteries depicting early twentieth-century industrial America.
Recommend this book:
Dead Man Falling
A Johnny Fedora Espionage Spy Thriller Assignment Book 3
Desmond Cory
2020 Honorable Mention
201 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Dead Man Falling is a work of fiction in the historical, crime, spy, and mystery sub-genres and was penned by author Desmond Cory. Written as the third installment in the Johnny Fedora Espionage Spy Thriller Assignment series, this new adventure sees our titular character at the very opening of the cold war in the year 1950. British agent Johnny Fedora showcases his serious set of skills in a world before high-tech became the norm, infiltrating different scenarios of the war-torn world with his wits and charm alone. But when Jonny becomes the target of the figure he’s trying to capture, the chase really is on for the solution to the mystery, and saving his own life.
Author Desmond Cory has crafted a classic read which is perfectly accessible to modern audiences and really does transport you back into the world of black and white movie espionage with larger than life characters and shocking plot twists. There is a beautiful nostalgia to the inviting and atmospheric prose which doesn’t take itself too seriously and invites us to harken back to the early fifties and explore a very different world to our own. I loved the realism in the spy techniques of the time, both surprising and inventive, and Johnny’s personality holds your interest even in the quiet moments as we learn more about the man himself and how he came to be so debonair and skilled. Overall, I would definitely recommend Dead Man Falling to fans of the existing series, and readers who adore classic crime and spy fiction that is both well written and utterly charming from cover to cover.
Dead Man Falling is a work of fiction in the historical, crime, spy, and mystery sub-genres and was penned by author Desmond Cory. Written as the third installment in the Johnny Fedora Espionage Spy Thriller Assignment series, this new adventure sees our titular character at the very opening of the cold war in the year 1950. British agent Johnny Fedora showcases his serious set of skills in a world before high-tech became the norm, infiltrating different scenarios of the war-torn world with his wits and charm alone. But when Jonny becomes the target of the figure he’s trying to capture, the chase really is on for the solution to the mystery, and saving his own life.
Author Desmond Cory has crafted a classic read which is perfectly accessible to modern audiences and really does transport you back into the world of black and white movie espionage with larger than life characters and shocking plot twists. There is a beautiful nostalgia to the inviting and atmospheric prose which doesn’t take itself too seriously and invites us to harken back to the early fifties and explore a very different world to our own. I loved the realism in the spy techniques of the time, both surprising and inventive, and Johnny’s personality holds your interest even in the quiet moments as we learn more about the man himself and how he came to be so debonair and skilled. Overall, I would definitely recommend Dead Man Falling to fans of the existing series, and readers who adore classic crime and spy fiction that is both well written and utterly charming from cover to cover.
Recommend this book:
Betrayal at Ravenswick
A Fiona Figg Mystery
Kelly Oliver
2020 Bronze Medal
240 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Betrayal at Ravenswick by Kelly Oliver is the first book in the Fiona Figg Mystery series. Fiona Figg has kept her head held high after her husband returned from war and is soon discovered to be cheating on her with his secretary. Following the end of her marriage, she decides to make a change in her life and plunges into an exciting new opportunity when she takes a job as a spy for British Intelligence. When a murder occurs and British Intelligence believes a traitor is in their midst, Fiona goes deep undercover which brings her face to face with a war correspondent that's a primary suspect and against law enforcement that seems to have the wrong idea about who the killer could be.
Set against the backdrop of War World I, Kelly Oliver tackles the fine details of the era perfectly through Fiona's mannerisms, dialogue, and attitude. The story is lighthearted, keeping a general cozy mystery tone while providing a genuine emotional reality of war. The war elements are woven into the background, with various locations such as the War Office, British Intelligence, and the Charing Cross Hospital. Oliver includes North London Collegiate School for girls and the Royal Military Academy. The story also incorporates several references to prominent figures during this time which include Churchill and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Oliver has created an amazing setting by capturing this era perfectly and in a leading character in the form of Fiona who is delightful, and never fails to bring a snarky attitude and a quick wit. The highly entertaining undercover work finds her donning men's clothing and takes her deep into the investigation by bringing her into the lives of a variety of characters. This is a mystery that you will want to read again and again, and it will have you on the edge of your seat until the next one. Betrayal at Ravenswick is an engaging mystery with a vivid eye for details, a brilliant and intelligent female lead with a quick wit and perfect comedic timing, and an emotional backdrop that brings out the reality of the war, and captures the fun of being a British Intelligence spy.
Betrayal at Ravenswick by Kelly Oliver is the first book in the Fiona Figg Mystery series. Fiona Figg has kept her head held high after her husband returned from war and is soon discovered to be cheating on her with his secretary. Following the end of her marriage, she decides to make a change in her life and plunges into an exciting new opportunity when she takes a job as a spy for British Intelligence. When a murder occurs and British Intelligence believes a traitor is in their midst, Fiona goes deep undercover which brings her face to face with a war correspondent that's a primary suspect and against law enforcement that seems to have the wrong idea about who the killer could be.
Set against the backdrop of War World I, Kelly Oliver tackles the fine details of the era perfectly through Fiona's mannerisms, dialogue, and attitude. The story is lighthearted, keeping a general cozy mystery tone while providing a genuine emotional reality of war. The war elements are woven into the background, with various locations such as the War Office, British Intelligence, and the Charing Cross Hospital. Oliver includes North London Collegiate School for girls and the Royal Military Academy. The story also incorporates several references to prominent figures during this time which include Churchill and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
Oliver has created an amazing setting by capturing this era perfectly and in a leading character in the form of Fiona who is delightful, and never fails to bring a snarky attitude and a quick wit. The highly entertaining undercover work finds her donning men's clothing and takes her deep into the investigation by bringing her into the lives of a variety of characters. This is a mystery that you will want to read again and again, and it will have you on the edge of your seat until the next one. Betrayal at Ravenswick is an engaging mystery with a vivid eye for details, a brilliant and intelligent female lead with a quick wit and perfect comedic timing, and an emotional backdrop that brings out the reality of the war, and captures the fun of being a British Intelligence spy.
Recommend this book:
Dew on Ginkgo Leaves
The Tigress and The General
Todd L. Shuler
2020 Silver Medal
274 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
Todd L. Shuler takes readers on a very fast ride with intense drama and action in Dew on Ginkgo Leaves: The Tigress and The General, an action novel that features two powerful warriors - Jade Flower, aka the Tigress, and the General, Yu Luan - battling an elusive organization that has only one purpose: to sink the empire. While there is a romance developing between the two lead characters, they have to remain focused while working through an intricate network of enemies to protect the interests of the empire. The plot gets interesting while they have to fight for a course and to protect a love that animates their spirits.
The author seems to understand the Chinese tradition very well and the top-notch fighting skills of the characters, their resourcefulness and teamwork are things that embellish the plot. The conflict is introduced from the very start of the novel and Todd L. Shuler wastes no time in creating action-packed scenes, and readers can feel their pulses rising as they read on. The sense of impending danger that precedes each scene makes the story one that is just right for a movie. The descriptions are clear and the writing polished, so readers can picture the characters clearly through every scene. The plot is fairly complex, but it is the focus on action that makes it exciting. Fast-paced with many insights into characterization, some interesting social commentaries, and humor, Dew on Ginkgo Leaves: The Tigress and The General becomes a breezy read, the thing you need when your spirits sink and you want to wake up. A highly entertaining story from a skilled storyteller.
Todd L. Shuler takes readers on a very fast ride with intense drama and action in Dew on Ginkgo Leaves: The Tigress and The General, an action novel that features two powerful warriors - Jade Flower, aka the Tigress, and the General, Yu Luan - battling an elusive organization that has only one purpose: to sink the empire. While there is a romance developing between the two lead characters, they have to remain focused while working through an intricate network of enemies to protect the interests of the empire. The plot gets interesting while they have to fight for a course and to protect a love that animates their spirits.
The author seems to understand the Chinese tradition very well and the top-notch fighting skills of the characters, their resourcefulness and teamwork are things that embellish the plot. The conflict is introduced from the very start of the novel and Todd L. Shuler wastes no time in creating action-packed scenes, and readers can feel their pulses rising as they read on. The sense of impending danger that precedes each scene makes the story one that is just right for a movie. The descriptions are clear and the writing polished, so readers can picture the characters clearly through every scene. The plot is fairly complex, but it is the focus on action that makes it exciting. Fast-paced with many insights into characterization, some interesting social commentaries, and humor, Dew on Ginkgo Leaves: The Tigress and The General becomes a breezy read, the thing you need when your spirits sink and you want to wake up. A highly entertaining story from a skilled storyteller.
Recommend this book:
, an uninvited/unknown guest, Sigurd, and a very strange community in Iceland. Gunnar is a very private person who doesn't like anybody other than his dog and his horse. He doesn't keep track of time, days, or dates. He is still mourning the death of his mother and father -- both l...){kind=link}
Storytellers
A gripping historical suspense novel of Iceland
Bjørn Larssen
2020 Gold Medal
608 Pages
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Fiction - Mystery - Historical
Reviewed By Ankita Shukla for Readers' Favorite
Storytellers by Bjørn Larssen revolves around Gunnar (a blacksmith), an uninvited/unknown guest, Sigurd, and a very strange community in Iceland. Gunnar is a very private person who doesn't like anybody other than his dog and his horse. He doesn't keep track of time, days, or dates. He is still mourning the death of his mother and father -- both long gone. Iceland has a prohibition on alcohol; however, Gunnar's medical condition gets him alcohol by doctor's orders. He doesn't like to accept it, but he is an alcoholic. Sigurd appears, almost out of nowhere, in Gunnar's forge, hands him all his money in exchange for some help with his hurt ankle. The pain in his ankle is so severe that he is almost immobile. To pass the time, he starts telling Gunnar a story. Considering the fact that Sigurd is dependent on Gunnar's care, he can't get rid of the unwelcome visitor yet. As if these problems weren't enough, a spinster is hellbent on marrying a very reluctant Gunnar. His patience is wearing thin, but there is nothing he can do to get rid of these people.
When I started reading the book, I was under the impression that the story Sigurd was telling was the main plot. It made me believe that whenever the author came back to the lives of Gunnar and Sigurd, it was only to provide readers with a distraction. However, soon I realized that it was part of the main plot. Bjørn Larssen, the author, merged both the parts to my amusement and intrigue. The characters of Sigurd's story were passionate, hard-working, outspoken, impulsive, and violent. Juana stole from her own family and ran with Arnar for love. Nonetheless, the idea of love soon appeared to be more fascinating than the reality of it. Gunnar's simplicity, unintentionally funny comments, and mood swings made him my favorite character. I highly recommend this genius book. Storytellers by Bjørn Larssen will entertain all patient readers, who enjoy taking time to read a well-written plot, understanding the characters, connecting the dots, and learning about the dark side of a human being.
Storytellers by Bjørn Larssen revolves around Gunnar (a blacksmith), an uninvited/unknown guest, Sigurd, and a very strange community in Iceland. Gunnar is a very private person who doesn't like anybody other than his dog and his horse. He doesn't keep track of time, days, or dates. He is still mourning the death of his mother and father -- both long gone. Iceland has a prohibition on alcohol; however, Gunnar's medical condition gets him alcohol by doctor's orders. He doesn't like to accept it, but he is an alcoholic. Sigurd appears, almost out of nowhere, in Gunnar's forge, hands him all his money in exchange for some help with his hurt ankle. The pain in his ankle is so severe that he is almost immobile. To pass the time, he starts telling Gunnar a story. Considering the fact that Sigurd is dependent on Gunnar's care, he can't get rid of the unwelcome visitor yet. As if these problems weren't enough, a spinster is hellbent on marrying a very reluctant Gunnar. His patience is wearing thin, but there is nothing he can do to get rid of these people.
When I started reading the book, I was under the impression that the story Sigurd was telling was the main plot. It made me believe that whenever the author came back to the lives of Gunnar and Sigurd, it was only to provide readers with a distraction. However, soon I realized that it was part of the main plot. Bjørn Larssen, the author, merged both the parts to my amusement and intrigue. The characters of Sigurd's story were passionate, hard-working, outspoken, impulsive, and violent. Juana stole from her own family and ran with Arnar for love. Nonetheless, the idea of love soon appeared to be more fascinating than the reality of it. Gunnar's simplicity, unintentionally funny comments, and mood swings made him my favorite character. I highly recommend this genius book. Storytellers by Bjørn Larssen will entertain all patient readers, who enjoy taking time to read a well-written plot, understanding the characters, connecting the dots, and learning about the dark side of a human being.
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