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Recommend this book:
Hive
Madders of Time Book One
D L Orton
2025 Finalist
356 Pages
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
D. L. Orton's breathtaking novel, Hive, unfolds in a futuristic setting where life is no longer sustainable on Earth. The last survivors are living in a biodome, waiting for life to come to an end. The fate of this world has been tragically altered by powerful technology once designed to help sustain life. Isabel, her lover, Diego, and their AI companion, Madders, are Earth's final hope to restore life on this dying planet. Isabel herself is plagued with a terminal illness and is nearing death. Having discovered a way to travel back in time, the couple agrees to send Diego back into the past. His mission is to warn their younger versions of the horrific impending doom that awaits them—and the world—in the future. Can Isabel and Diego right the wrongs of their past selves and build a better future? Can they save themselves, the things they lost, and a dying world?
Hive is the exhilarating first installment in the Madders of Time series. I loved how easy it was to become submerged in the story and the captivating series of events that move the plot forward. Even though this is a dystopian sci-fi novel, the narrative isn't laden with overly complicated scientific jargon. Instead, the plot is well-fleshed out and creatively explored through the experiences of the main characters themselves. Each character is relatable and stands out, including the antagonists. D. L. Orton does a superb job of merging and balancing the urgency of saving the world with Isabel and Diego's profound relationship and character engagements. Their journey is very much a story of love, vulnerability, and reestablishing their intimacy. It's also about hope, betrayal, corruption, greed, second chances, and confronting past mistakes. Fans of dystopian sci-fi will fall in love with this novel from the first chapter. I recommend this book to them!
D. L. Orton's breathtaking novel, Hive, unfolds in a futuristic setting where life is no longer sustainable on Earth. The last survivors are living in a biodome, waiting for life to come to an end. The fate of this world has been tragically altered by powerful technology once designed to help sustain life. Isabel, her lover, Diego, and their AI companion, Madders, are Earth's final hope to restore life on this dying planet. Isabel herself is plagued with a terminal illness and is nearing death. Having discovered a way to travel back in time, the couple agrees to send Diego back into the past. His mission is to warn their younger versions of the horrific impending doom that awaits them—and the world—in the future. Can Isabel and Diego right the wrongs of their past selves and build a better future? Can they save themselves, the things they lost, and a dying world?
Hive is the exhilarating first installment in the Madders of Time series. I loved how easy it was to become submerged in the story and the captivating series of events that move the plot forward. Even though this is a dystopian sci-fi novel, the narrative isn't laden with overly complicated scientific jargon. Instead, the plot is well-fleshed out and creatively explored through the experiences of the main characters themselves. Each character is relatable and stands out, including the antagonists. D. L. Orton does a superb job of merging and balancing the urgency of saving the world with Isabel and Diego's profound relationship and character engagements. Their journey is very much a story of love, vulnerability, and reestablishing their intimacy. It's also about hope, betrayal, corruption, greed, second chances, and confronting past mistakes. Fans of dystopian sci-fi will fall in love with this novel from the first chapter. I recommend this book to them!
Recommend this book:
Secrets, Lies and Betrayals
Protect and Honor Series Book 1
Lynn Wood
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Foram Vyas for Readers' Favorite
Secrets, Lies and Betrayals by Lynn Wood is a gripping start to the Protect and Honor series, centered on Michaela Manning, a woman whose life is a delicate balance of hidden truths and fabricated identities. As a child, Michaela survived a brutal attack that killed her grandfather and changed her life forever. Raised in Europe under an alias and protected by ex-Special Forces operative Maxwell Cole, Michaela has crafted a new existence away from her past. However, her father's political aspirations bring her back into the spotlight, and the search for the long-lost daughter of a presidential nominee becomes a media frenzy. When Michaela's secret is betrayed, she must flee with Max and confront her past to survive the threats against her.
Lynn Wood masterfully weaves a tale filled with suspense, political intrigue, and personal drama. The plot is tightly constructed, maintaining a high level of tension throughout. The pacing is excellent, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged without feeling overwhelmed. Action scenes are well-executed, and thrilling, and complement the intricate storyline. The characters are richly developed, with Michaela's resilience and Max's loyalty standing out as key elements that drive the narrative. The themes of identity, betrayal, and survival are explored with depth and nuance, making the story both compelling and thought-provoking. Wood's skillful storytelling, combined with timely and relevant themes, makes Secrets, Lies and Betrayals a highly recommended read for fans of political thrillers and suspenseful dramas. This book not only entertains but also offers a profound reflection on the complexities of personal and political identities.
Secrets, Lies and Betrayals by Lynn Wood is a gripping start to the Protect and Honor series, centered on Michaela Manning, a woman whose life is a delicate balance of hidden truths and fabricated identities. As a child, Michaela survived a brutal attack that killed her grandfather and changed her life forever. Raised in Europe under an alias and protected by ex-Special Forces operative Maxwell Cole, Michaela has crafted a new existence away from her past. However, her father's political aspirations bring her back into the spotlight, and the search for the long-lost daughter of a presidential nominee becomes a media frenzy. When Michaela's secret is betrayed, she must flee with Max and confront her past to survive the threats against her.
Lynn Wood masterfully weaves a tale filled with suspense, political intrigue, and personal drama. The plot is tightly constructed, maintaining a high level of tension throughout. The pacing is excellent, ensuring that readers are constantly engaged without feeling overwhelmed. Action scenes are well-executed, and thrilling, and complement the intricate storyline. The characters are richly developed, with Michaela's resilience and Max's loyalty standing out as key elements that drive the narrative. The themes of identity, betrayal, and survival are explored with depth and nuance, making the story both compelling and thought-provoking. Wood's skillful storytelling, combined with timely and relevant themes, makes Secrets, Lies and Betrayals a highly recommended read for fans of political thrillers and suspenseful dramas. This book not only entertains but also offers a profound reflection on the complexities of personal and political identities.
Recommend this book:
You're Gone
J.S. Morton
2025 Bronze Medal
280 Pages
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Stephen Christopher for Readers' Favorite
What would it be like to get inside the mind of a serial killer? Well, that’s just what’s on offer in J.S. Morton’s You’re Gone. Arthur Norman is your run-of-the-mill serial killer. The reader meets Arthur eight months after the death of his wife, and the grieving process is still in full force. Arthur hasn’t killed in all this time, but he’s starting to get the urge again. When his house is robbed and data from his computer is stolen, this sets him on a path that he didn’t expect to be on. Enter Ophelia Christos, a new love interest, and his life has become even more complicated. Who has stolen his data and what was so important about it? Can Arthur fight his urges or will he kill again? You’ll need to read You’re Gone to find out.
The thing the reader will most love about Arthur Norman is that he’s an average-looking guy, the kind that blends into a crowd, and that’s perfect when you’re a serial killer. Of course, his many disguises, including wigs, definitely help. Books narrated in the first person work best when they’re written well. J.S. Morton has excelled here. The reader is forever in Arthur’s mind and can empathize with his choices, as far removed as they may be from their own. I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that so far this is my favorite book of the year. I loved every second of it, right up until the shock ending, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the sequel. You’re Gone is dark comedy at its finest and is best suited for adults as there are graphic descriptions of killing people.
What would it be like to get inside the mind of a serial killer? Well, that’s just what’s on offer in J.S. Morton’s You’re Gone. Arthur Norman is your run-of-the-mill serial killer. The reader meets Arthur eight months after the death of his wife, and the grieving process is still in full force. Arthur hasn’t killed in all this time, but he’s starting to get the urge again. When his house is robbed and data from his computer is stolen, this sets him on a path that he didn’t expect to be on. Enter Ophelia Christos, a new love interest, and his life has become even more complicated. Who has stolen his data and what was so important about it? Can Arthur fight his urges or will he kill again? You’ll need to read You’re Gone to find out.
The thing the reader will most love about Arthur Norman is that he’s an average-looking guy, the kind that blends into a crowd, and that’s perfect when you’re a serial killer. Of course, his many disguises, including wigs, definitely help. Books narrated in the first person work best when they’re written well. J.S. Morton has excelled here. The reader is forever in Arthur’s mind and can empathize with his choices, as far removed as they may be from their own. I’m going to go out on a limb here and say that so far this is my favorite book of the year. I loved every second of it, right up until the shock ending, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the sequel. You’re Gone is dark comedy at its finest and is best suited for adults as there are graphic descriptions of killing people.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/where-you-once-belonged&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41emE%2Bld25L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Where You Once Belonged by Lorna Graham is a compelling exploration of identity, belonging, and the bonds of sisterhood. The novel skillfully weaves together themes of nostalgia, self-discovery, and how the past influences the present. At its core is Everleigh "Ev" Page, a journalist navigating the complexities of her career while being pulled back...){kind=link}
Where You Once Belonged
A Novel
Lorna Graham
2025 Silver Medal
328 Pages
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Where You Once Belonged by Lorna Graham is a compelling exploration of identity, belonging, and the bonds of sisterhood. The novel skillfully weaves together themes of nostalgia, self-discovery, and how the past influences the present. At its core is Everleigh "Ev" Page, a journalist navigating the complexities of her career while being pulled back to her formative years at Foster House, a place steeped in mystery and ritual. The narrative begins with Ev receiving an invitation to a “Recommitment” ceremony at Foster House, which brings back memories of a pivotal moment from her youth. The book’s dual timeline structure enables readers to explore Ev’s current challenges as an ambitious news producer while reflecting on her tumultuous college years. These parallel storylines add emotional depth and suspense.
Lorna Graham vividly paints the pressures of the newsroom and the haunting allure of Foster House. The dynamics of the "sisterhood" at Foster House are particularly well-drawn, offering an examination of friendship, loyalty, and betrayal. Graham skillfully captures the tension between Ev’s yearning for connection and her struggle to reconcile with painful memories. The novel also explores career ambition and the sacrifices it demands. Ev’s role as a high-powered executive producer highlights women’s challenges in competitive industries, adding a contemporary edge to the story. Where You Once Belonged blends mystery, drama, and introspection. Graham writes with passion and emotion, which makes this an engrossing story. Women’s fiction, suspense, or drama readers won’t want to miss this book. It’s a page-turner that, once started, is difficult to put down.
Where You Once Belonged by Lorna Graham is a compelling exploration of identity, belonging, and the bonds of sisterhood. The novel skillfully weaves together themes of nostalgia, self-discovery, and how the past influences the present. At its core is Everleigh "Ev" Page, a journalist navigating the complexities of her career while being pulled back to her formative years at Foster House, a place steeped in mystery and ritual. The narrative begins with Ev receiving an invitation to a “Recommitment” ceremony at Foster House, which brings back memories of a pivotal moment from her youth. The book’s dual timeline structure enables readers to explore Ev’s current challenges as an ambitious news producer while reflecting on her tumultuous college years. These parallel storylines add emotional depth and suspense.
Lorna Graham vividly paints the pressures of the newsroom and the haunting allure of Foster House. The dynamics of the "sisterhood" at Foster House are particularly well-drawn, offering an examination of friendship, loyalty, and betrayal. Graham skillfully captures the tension between Ev’s yearning for connection and her struggle to reconcile with painful memories. The novel also explores career ambition and the sacrifices it demands. Ev’s role as a high-powered executive producer highlights women’s challenges in competitive industries, adding a contemporary edge to the story. Where You Once Belonged blends mystery, drama, and introspection. Graham writes with passion and emotion, which makes this an engrossing story. Women’s fiction, suspense, or drama readers won’t want to miss this book. It’s a page-turner that, once started, is difficult to put down.
Recommend this book:
Hollywood and Velvet
David Towner
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Stephen Christopher for Readers' Favorite
Handsome actor Christian Meier had a mediocre run in a TV series, some indie films, and a national commercial and is in the middle of a career slump. His agent, Gordy Roark, has an unusual project for him. He asks Christian to work as an assistant for former Hollywood star Velvet Duval, who’s planning a comeback. Christian’s unenthusiastic about the work until he finds out he’s getting paid $2,500 weekly. However, from the moment he arrives at her house, he realizes something is off about Ms Duval; at first, he puts it down to eccentric star behavior. As the weeks go on, she becomes more and more odd, and he gets stuck in a situation that he’s not sure how to escape. What’s really going on with her, and can Christian get out alive with his sanity intact? Read the exceptionally entertaining Hollywood and Velvet by David Towner to find out.
Hollywood and Velvet is a page-turner from the prologue. From there, it races along like an out-of-control speeding car. The reader can’t help feeling for Christian as he endures endless requests from Velvet, each interaction more bizarre than the previous. Her behavior, while entertaining to read, would be awful for anyone on the other end of it. The shock ending will have everyone gasping. It blew my mind and made me question everything I’d just read. I put this book down extremely satisfied and added David Towner to my list of authors I must read more from. Lovers of Hollywood suspense stories with a touch of peculiar behavior will adore this as much as I did.
Handsome actor Christian Meier had a mediocre run in a TV series, some indie films, and a national commercial and is in the middle of a career slump. His agent, Gordy Roark, has an unusual project for him. He asks Christian to work as an assistant for former Hollywood star Velvet Duval, who’s planning a comeback. Christian’s unenthusiastic about the work until he finds out he’s getting paid $2,500 weekly. However, from the moment he arrives at her house, he realizes something is off about Ms Duval; at first, he puts it down to eccentric star behavior. As the weeks go on, she becomes more and more odd, and he gets stuck in a situation that he’s not sure how to escape. What’s really going on with her, and can Christian get out alive with his sanity intact? Read the exceptionally entertaining Hollywood and Velvet by David Towner to find out.
Hollywood and Velvet is a page-turner from the prologue. From there, it races along like an out-of-control speeding car. The reader can’t help feeling for Christian as he endures endless requests from Velvet, each interaction more bizarre than the previous. Her behavior, while entertaining to read, would be awful for anyone on the other end of it. The shock ending will have everyone gasping. It blew my mind and made me question everything I’d just read. I put this book down extremely satisfied and added David Towner to my list of authors I must read more from. Lovers of Hollywood suspense stories with a touch of peculiar behavior will adore this as much as I did.
Recommend this book:
, an art gallery owner, arrives in Colombia to attend the Bogotá Art Fair, hoping to find wealthy collectors for her collection. But soon after her arrival, one of her art crates gets stuck at customs,...){kind=link}
Five Days in Bogotá
A Novel
Linda Moore
2024 Finalist
304 Pages
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Five Days in Bogotá is a gripping thriller by Linda Moore. It's the year 1990. Seeking to save her family from financial ruin, Allison Blake (Ally), an art gallery owner, arrives in Colombia to attend the Bogotá Art Fair, hoping to find wealthy collectors for her collection. But soon after her arrival, one of her art crates gets stuck at customs, eventually finding its way to Ally with two additional paintings that don't belong to her collection. Ally suddenly finds herself entangled in a sinister conspiracy involving the US government, drug cartels, and local criminals. When her ex-boyfriend, an American diplomat, turns up dead, Ally has no choice but to formulate a plan to escape Colombia while selling valuable artwork that belongs to a wanted drug lord. Can Ally beat the odds and succeed?
Featuring actual historical personalities and events, Linda Moore has penned a captivating pageturner that has you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Five Days in Bogotá provides thrills galore alongside a healthy dose of suspense, mystery, and intrigue. Moore paces the narrative nicely and uses well-placed curveballs throughout the plot that will keep you guessing as to what's coming next. There is a palpable sense of tension in the narrative that makes you sympathize with Ally's plight, and, as a reader, you want her to make it out alive and well. Moore also perfectly captures the socio-political turmoil of Colombia in the early 1990s, making the setting feel rich, vibrant, and lived-in. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it to thriller and historical fiction readers alike.
Five Days in Bogotá is a gripping thriller by Linda Moore. It's the year 1990. Seeking to save her family from financial ruin, Allison Blake (Ally), an art gallery owner, arrives in Colombia to attend the Bogotá Art Fair, hoping to find wealthy collectors for her collection. But soon after her arrival, one of her art crates gets stuck at customs, eventually finding its way to Ally with two additional paintings that don't belong to her collection. Ally suddenly finds herself entangled in a sinister conspiracy involving the US government, drug cartels, and local criminals. When her ex-boyfriend, an American diplomat, turns up dead, Ally has no choice but to formulate a plan to escape Colombia while selling valuable artwork that belongs to a wanted drug lord. Can Ally beat the odds and succeed?
Featuring actual historical personalities and events, Linda Moore has penned a captivating pageturner that has you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Five Days in Bogotá provides thrills galore alongside a healthy dose of suspense, mystery, and intrigue. Moore paces the narrative nicely and uses well-placed curveballs throughout the plot that will keep you guessing as to what's coming next. There is a palpable sense of tension in the narrative that makes you sympathize with Ally's plight, and, as a reader, you want her to make it out alive and well. Moore also perfectly captures the socio-political turmoil of Colombia in the early 1990s, making the setting feel rich, vibrant, and lived-in. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it to thriller and historical fiction readers alike.
Recommend this book:
A Deadly Game
Gayle Brown
2024 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Alma Boucher for Readers' Favorite
A Deadly Game by Gayle Brown is a thriller full of twists and turns. Jaden Pierce went missing while playing manhunt in the woods by Lake Cypress with his fraternity brothers. When the police organized a search party for Jaden, Nicole joined them. Nicole stumbled upon her son Kyle’s license during the search and hid it. Kyle was her only child, and Nicole would do whatever was necessary to protect him. Nicole was not sure if she could believe Kyle when he said he had nothing to do with Jaden’s disappearance. While searching for answers on her own, Nicole noticed that she was being followed. Nicole was unsure what to do with the information she had obtained; should she keep it to herself or go to the police?
Gayle Brown had me hooked from the first page of A Deadly Game until the end. This thriller is fast-paced, jam-packed with action, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. It was a roller coaster of suspicion, murder, betrayal, and surprises. It was a page-turner, and I could not put it down because I was too afraid I would miss something. The characters were outstanding, and I could relate to them. Nicole hid information about her son from her husband, only to find out that he was no longer the man she married. The story was excellently written, and the ending was fantastic; there was a major twist that I didn't expect. I was barely over the shock when another truth was revealed that I didn't see coming or expect at all.
A Deadly Game by Gayle Brown is a thriller full of twists and turns. Jaden Pierce went missing while playing manhunt in the woods by Lake Cypress with his fraternity brothers. When the police organized a search party for Jaden, Nicole joined them. Nicole stumbled upon her son Kyle’s license during the search and hid it. Kyle was her only child, and Nicole would do whatever was necessary to protect him. Nicole was not sure if she could believe Kyle when he said he had nothing to do with Jaden’s disappearance. While searching for answers on her own, Nicole noticed that she was being followed. Nicole was unsure what to do with the information she had obtained; should she keep it to herself or go to the police?
Gayle Brown had me hooked from the first page of A Deadly Game until the end. This thriller is fast-paced, jam-packed with action, and the suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. It was a roller coaster of suspicion, murder, betrayal, and surprises. It was a page-turner, and I could not put it down because I was too afraid I would miss something. The characters were outstanding, and I could relate to them. Nicole hid information about her son from her husband, only to find out that he was no longer the man she married. The story was excellently written, and the ending was fantastic; there was a major twist that I didn't expect. I was barely over the shock when another truth was revealed that I didn't see coming or expect at all.
Recommend this book:
When You Read This I'll Be Gone
Anne Moose
2024 Bronze Medal
307 Pages
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Tracy Traynor for Readers' Favorite
In When You Read This I’ll Be Gone by Anne Moose, Valerie Hawthorne might never have climbed out of bed on the day she drove to Montana if she’d known what lay ahead. Valerie had taken a gap year from teaching to write her next book, so she happily agreed to be a keynote speaker at a writers' conference in Gallatin Valley. Treating herself, she booked into a posh spa hotel to relax and enjoy the view. In this idyllic setting, she met Tom, a dashing, charming man who was there for the fishing. Having just discovered something about her husband, Valerie had a one-night stand for the first time in her life. When she woke up in the morning, the Paul Newman lookalike had gone. Feeling guilty, she prepared for the long journey home but then her world exploded. Revenge had driven Tom to adopt dire measures and he seemed hell-bent on destroying her life. The devastation that followed was catastrophic. As Tom began to reveal his reasons, Valerie had to try to salvage as much of her wrecked life as she could by doing what he asked.
I was gripped by Valerie’s opening letter until the emotional ending. I cried quite a bit. When You Read This I’ll Be Gone is full of raw feelings. As Valerie's, Tom's, and London’s stories evolved I was so invested in what happened that I couldn’t put the book down. Anne Moose writes superbly and masterfully controls the plot, revealing a little more with each chapter. Her writing style is elegant and her portrayal of how violence rips people’s lives apart was sensitive but real. The ripple effect that spreads out from one act of violence is presented with riveting clarity. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would like to read something more by this talented author. An utterly gripping thriller.
In When You Read This I’ll Be Gone by Anne Moose, Valerie Hawthorne might never have climbed out of bed on the day she drove to Montana if she’d known what lay ahead. Valerie had taken a gap year from teaching to write her next book, so she happily agreed to be a keynote speaker at a writers' conference in Gallatin Valley. Treating herself, she booked into a posh spa hotel to relax and enjoy the view. In this idyllic setting, she met Tom, a dashing, charming man who was there for the fishing. Having just discovered something about her husband, Valerie had a one-night stand for the first time in her life. When she woke up in the morning, the Paul Newman lookalike had gone. Feeling guilty, she prepared for the long journey home but then her world exploded. Revenge had driven Tom to adopt dire measures and he seemed hell-bent on destroying her life. The devastation that followed was catastrophic. As Tom began to reveal his reasons, Valerie had to try to salvage as much of her wrecked life as she could by doing what he asked.
I was gripped by Valerie’s opening letter until the emotional ending. I cried quite a bit. When You Read This I’ll Be Gone is full of raw feelings. As Valerie's, Tom's, and London’s stories evolved I was so invested in what happened that I couldn’t put the book down. Anne Moose writes superbly and masterfully controls the plot, revealing a little more with each chapter. Her writing style is elegant and her portrayal of how violence rips people’s lives apart was sensitive but real. The ripple effect that spreads out from one act of violence is presented with riveting clarity. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would like to read something more by this talented author. An utterly gripping thriller.
Recommend this book:
Love Lost Adventure
The Lie
Roseann Gargiulo
2024 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Love Lost Adventure: The Lie is a work of fiction in the romance, suspense, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to adult readers and was penned by author Roseann Gargiulo. This captivating journey through time and emotions follows protagonist Theodora Hayes, affectionately known as Teddy, a determined and passionate woman who embarks on a quest to rekindle a love she left behind many years ago. Her unwavering desire to find Cole, the love of her life, drives her forward, even in the face of danger, murder, and the complexities of love itself. The storytelling takes readers on a whirlwind adventure that spans from 1998 back to the Civil War era.
Author Roseann Gargiulo's characters are richly developed, and their deep connections evoke a range of emotions, taking readers from laughter to tears at the turn of a page. This deft command of emotional vulnerability is down to the intricacies of the dialogue and narrative presentation, which allows us a close look at Teddy and those around her when her emotions are put to the test. The novel keeps you engaged and always guessing at what may happen next as it navigates through mishaps, human connections, and a cast of fascinating ensemble characters. Overall, Love Lost Adventure: The Lie is a beautifully written tale that explores the enduring power of love and the mysteries of the human heart. I would highly recommend it as a must-read for those who enjoy a blend of historical fiction, romance, and adventure, all wrapped up in a compelling, emotive narrative.
Love Lost Adventure: The Lie is a work of fiction in the romance, suspense, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is best suited to adult readers and was penned by author Roseann Gargiulo. This captivating journey through time and emotions follows protagonist Theodora Hayes, affectionately known as Teddy, a determined and passionate woman who embarks on a quest to rekindle a love she left behind many years ago. Her unwavering desire to find Cole, the love of her life, drives her forward, even in the face of danger, murder, and the complexities of love itself. The storytelling takes readers on a whirlwind adventure that spans from 1998 back to the Civil War era.
Author Roseann Gargiulo's characters are richly developed, and their deep connections evoke a range of emotions, taking readers from laughter to tears at the turn of a page. This deft command of emotional vulnerability is down to the intricacies of the dialogue and narrative presentation, which allows us a close look at Teddy and those around her when her emotions are put to the test. The novel keeps you engaged and always guessing at what may happen next as it navigates through mishaps, human connections, and a cast of fascinating ensemble characters. Overall, Love Lost Adventure: The Lie is a beautifully written tale that explores the enduring power of love and the mysteries of the human heart. I would highly recommend it as a must-read for those who enjoy a blend of historical fiction, romance, and adventure, all wrapped up in a compelling, emotive narrative.
Recommend this book:
Guidance to Death
#1 Frank Adams Detective series
Daniel V. Meier, Jr
2024 Gold Medal
280 Pages
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Lucinda E Clarke for Readers' Favorite
In Guidance to Death, Daniel V Meier Jr opens his story with a horrific plane crash. The wreckage is so severe the authorities cannot tell what caused the crash. Was it a pilot error, a mechanical fault, or sabotage? Aviation crash expert Frank Adams is hired by the widow to investigate because she suspects her husband and the two other passengers were murdered. What begins as a simple investigation becomes deadly as Adams discovers some people are determined to cover their tracks and leave no loose ends. From the information Adams discovers, he has become a loose end and his life, and that of the people he works with, are at risk from those who are as ruthless as they are criminals.
I enjoyed reading Daniel V Meier Jr’s Guidance to Death. It is fast-moving, page-turning, and exciting. Meier's knowledge of planes makes the plot realistic, but he does not overstretch you with too many technicalities. His hero Frank Adams is no James Bond. He doesn’t win every fight, nor shoot like William Tell. He is relatable and likable and you cannot help but cheer him on. Other characters are equally down to earth, as they battle one twist after another as the action speeds up. I loved his girlfriend The Major, who is more of a friend with benefits, and even Helen Rawlson, the widow, who at first is not a likable person, but who softens toward the end. I have read several of Meier's titles and I have enjoyed them all. This is a little different as it is pure adventure, firmly in the crime genre, and is up there with the best. Highly recommended.
In Guidance to Death, Daniel V Meier Jr opens his story with a horrific plane crash. The wreckage is so severe the authorities cannot tell what caused the crash. Was it a pilot error, a mechanical fault, or sabotage? Aviation crash expert Frank Adams is hired by the widow to investigate because she suspects her husband and the two other passengers were murdered. What begins as a simple investigation becomes deadly as Adams discovers some people are determined to cover their tracks and leave no loose ends. From the information Adams discovers, he has become a loose end and his life, and that of the people he works with, are at risk from those who are as ruthless as they are criminals.
I enjoyed reading Daniel V Meier Jr’s Guidance to Death. It is fast-moving, page-turning, and exciting. Meier's knowledge of planes makes the plot realistic, but he does not overstretch you with too many technicalities. His hero Frank Adams is no James Bond. He doesn’t win every fight, nor shoot like William Tell. He is relatable and likable and you cannot help but cheer him on. Other characters are equally down to earth, as they battle one twist after another as the action speeds up. I loved his girlfriend The Major, who is more of a friend with benefits, and even Helen Rawlson, the widow, who at first is not a likable person, but who softens toward the end. I have read several of Meier's titles and I have enjoyed them all. This is a little different as it is pure adventure, firmly in the crime genre, and is up there with the best. Highly recommended.
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