Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite

In Sanction, William Hunter sets his crime thriller in the United Kingdom. Sean Garrett is on an unofficial mission there when he witnesses the murder of a reputable Cambridge professor by a well-known contract killer, David Laurent. His cover is blown and he has to get as far as possible from a killer who wants to leave no traces behind. The head of the Secret Intelligence Service is trying to find out if there is a connection between the murder of the professor and a bombing that took place a year earlier. While CIA operatives Tre Ward and Brian Bishop are on a desperate mission to locate and extract Garrett, Montjoy, the head of the SIS, makes a discovery that will blow the minds of readers, a dangerous secret that has been buried since WWII.

William Hunter introduces readers to an array of characters, each with a solid background and depth of personality. The writing has great emotional resonance, semantic richness, and essential depth. I love stories that are well-plotted and Sanction never disappointed. Right from the very first page, the reader is already enticed by the elements of suspense that define the pulse of the story. This one is a veritable tour de force and Hunter reveals himself as a master of the craft, one whose name should appear alongside the likes of James Patterson and Lee Child. The story is intelligently constructed and the execution is faultless, a gripping plot with swift turns that will grip the reader.

Reviewed by Gisela Dixon for Readers' Favorite

Amie Stolen Future by Lucinda E Clarke is book three in a series of books centered around Amie and her life in Africa. Amie returns to Africa once again with her husband, where she has previously formed relationships, friendships, and even enemies. As Amie, a young white woman, tries to settle down into her life again, her past and her enemies rise up as she faces devastating losses, death, the fear of rape, and even murder, while at the same time forming new relationships and experiencing new adventures. This is a suspense thriller that leaves one wondering until the end. The beauty, wildness, and majesty of Africa has been stunningly portrayed and it is easy to see why Amie considers this her home.

Amie Stolen Future by Lucinda E Clarke is an engaging read. The plot moves fast and, with its aura of danger and adventure, is a mix between romance, thriller, and suspense genres. I liked the character of Amie and, in fact, felt that the essence of Africa has been captured well in the characters overall. While reading the book, I felt as if I was a part of the sun-drenched landscape and the vast open spaces of Africa. I only wish that, for someone who isn’t familiar with the other books in the series, more of a background had been provided as I found myself trying to catch up with the characters’ backgrounds and past relationships. Still, I found this to be an enjoyable read and would recommend it.

Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite

Presidential Conclusions by Douglas J. Wood is a powerful political thriller with compelling characters. A story with an international setting in the future, with complex terrorist issues affecting the US, Ukraine and the Middle East. The reader follows the life of US President Samantha Harrison, a strong female president faced with monumental challenges. In this spellbinding thriller, the reader is introduced to her unique way of making decisions that affect her people and other countries. Follow her in her dealings with past US presidents and her determination to solve a major terrorist threat. But can she succeed?

It is surprising to note that this book, the third in a trilogy, was written before the most recent presidential elections because the reader might have thought it was inspired by Hillary Clinton’s political journey. I was hooked right away and couldn’t help but notice the realism in Douglas J. Wood’s writing and its prophetic message. I loved the fact that the protagonist is a woman and readers will root for her. It will be impossible for a keen reader to read this engaging story without reflecting on the current American political conundrum. The author masterfully weaves the themes of racism, patriotism, terrorism, and politics into the story without distracting the reader in any way.

There are very revealing passages in the story, especially in the words of the protagonist. Here is one of the statements that hit close to home and call for serious thought: “We are not a country of vigilantes, but we must be vigilant. We are not people who look at others and judge them as terrorists because of the color of their skin or the heritage of their parents. But we are people intelligent enough to know that profiling to protect our safety and the well-being of our loved ones is a justified caution.” Presidential Conclusions arrests the reader’s attention and forces them to follow compelling characters like Samantha and Ayatollah Ali Khomeini until the last page. The balanced writing, the gripping plot, and the strong sense of pacing are elements that make this novel a great success.

Reviewed by Rabia Tanveer for Readers' Favorite

Before I begin the review for Eagle Shield: Milestone Rising by Carl Lakeland, can I just say, wow! Seriously, this is one of the best thriller novels with a spy angle that I have read EVER! I absolutely loved the story line, I loved the characters, I loved the pace, and I loved every single thing about it. Everything was on point, even the cover of the novel reflects upon the story itself. The dialogues revealed so much about the characters and how they said it made all the difference! Such small yet important things were given close attention by the writer, which I think is a great accomplishment.

What happens when an ex-soldier is given an assignment to protect a great secret and a 10-year-old child? Nothing goes according to plan, the little girl will charm the soldier and the soldier will lose his heart and soul to the innocent little girl. When Nathan is given the assignment to relocate little Angel to Melbourne, he has no idea that the whole mission will be one with dangerous twists and turns. Angel is not an ordinary 10-year-old; she has special powers that must be protected until she is ready to face the world with her power. Along with her, Nathan has to guard a disk with all his might. He has no idea that having Angel and the disk in the same place will mean so much danger for them. He is also not counting on the fact that little Angel will distract him, steal his heart and make him become a father. He is not ready for this, but he has never run away from responsibility and he will never abandon Angel. So what will he do now? Is he strong enough to protect Angel from the forces that want to abuse her powers?

I loved the relationship between Nathan and Angel, it was sweet and adorable. Nathan is a protector and he knows it, but he was very much like a parent toward Angel from the very get go. He was a little hesitant at the beginning, but he quickly learnt to trust his instincts when it came to her. In return, Angel showered her affection on Nathan, which was really very sweet. I simply adored this novel because it was so good that I didn't want it to end.

Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite

Standstill by Jack Probyn is a pulsating terrorist thriller that moves at an electrifying pace. The setting is London and the time is summer, when residents feel the humidity washing over them. Two brothers execute one of the most dreadful terrorist attacks the city has ever known, bringing three trains destined for the airport to a standstill, and holding thousands of people hostage. However, they make a very strange demand and DC Jake Tanner soon finds himself being played like a rag doll. He is issued a set of rules by the terrorists and breaking any one of them would mean dire consequences for the hostages, and he can’t afford to be late. Follow this terrorist drama as the story gets more complex from one gripping page to the next sensational one. There's no difference between this thriller and a compelling, action-packed movie.

Love Patterson or Connelly? If yes, then Standstill will have the same effect that these authors have on readers. Tightly plotted with unbelievable tension and the highest of stakes, this story pulls readers into a game where nothing is predictable. The pacing is fast, and it moves with the same rhythm as the pounding action and the emotional tide. Having a great idea for a novel is something any average writer can imagine, but executing the plot to a satisfying denouement requires skill. Jack Probyn comes across as a master in crafting a story with an exhilarating endgame. From an author I haven’t read before, this book is a rare gem, a wonderful treat in entertainment.

Reviewed by Tracy Slowiak for Readers' Favorite

In author Cary Allen Stone's latest installment in his Jake Roberts series, After the Kill, readers will again be treated to a stellar thriller that will keep them engaged from the very first page all the way through until the end. When the story begins, Jake encounters a veteran at the airport who seems to be going through a psychotic break down and is killing many who cross his path. Jake's great friend is wounded, and Jake needs to act to keep others from being harmed. But just when Jake thinks he might be able to give a sigh of relief, a new serial killer makes an appearance on the scene, and it appears that his unique skill set will be desperately needed to help solve the crimes before more victims are claimed. Will Jake be able to bring the criminal in, or will he become a target himself? You'll need read the book to find out!

I very much enjoyed After the Kill. Author Cary Allen Stone has done a great job in creating interesting and engaging characters, especially the main character, Jake Roberts, and his readers will continue to think about them long after the book is finished, a true hallmark of a talented author. The story line is crisp and fast paced, and will have readers on the edge of their seats throughout. Any reader who enjoys thrillers, or just an exciting read of fiction, should absolutely read After the Kill. I am pleased to recommend this book, and look forward to reading more from author Cary Allen Stone as soon as I possibly can!

Reviewed by Ruffina Oserio for Readers' Favorite

Piercing the Veil by Eric J Wentz is an intense political thriller that features very compelling characters. In a story set against the historical background of World War II, the reader will encounter coalitions between intelligence bodies—like the OSS, the CIA, the SAS, and the SEALs—and sinister missions. It is in such a tense political atmosphere that the highly skilled Lieutenant Commander Grant Chisolm is tasked to rescue hostages taken by a charismatic and revolutionary leader in sub-Saharan Africa, a mission that must be completed discreetly. What he will discover in this daring mission will bring him face-to-face with himself, allow him to question his past, and determine a course of action that may resonate with his life’s purpose. This is a political thriller with a powerful message, a story that connects one man to history and opens his eyes to truths that will shake everything he’s believed in.

Eric J Wentz has written a captivating story that readers will devour with a lot of interest. I loved the writing, the fast-paced plot, and the compelling characters. The protagonist is very well-developed, the kind of character that readers will love to follow. Chisolm reads so realistically that the reader feels as if he is just a character sitting with them on the bus, making a journey. The writing is superb, crisp, and so tightly knit that it is a delight to read. I enjoyed the well-crafted dialogues; they read so naturally. The conflict is well-developed and it is one of the compelling elements that keeps the pulse of the plot. This is a book for fans of thrillers with intense action and intrigue. Piercing the Veil is a real page-turner.

Reviewed by Arya Fomonyuy for Readers' Favorite

Defender: A Scottish-American Fairy Tale by Travis L. Salisbury and Janet C. Smyth is a powerful blend of romance and adventure, a beautifully written story with compelling characters, a strong storyline featuring unexpected leaps of faith and sudden surprises, and an endearing sense of suspense, the kind that keeps the reader turning the pages. The reader is introduced to Kate, who is on the road, mulling over her life and considering unusual things that could happen, but then she encounters a man, an FBI agent, and her real story begins.

The authors capture this encounter in very vivid and powerful prose: "Somewhere after Ness City, and before Bazine, Kate came upon a brilliantly lit scene, the remains of a very crumpled late-model white sedan, and standing next to it, a man who, except for his modern clothing, could have stepped out of a battle from a hundred or a thousand years before. For a moment, Kate found herself looking for a bloodstained sword or battle axe laid at his feet." From this point on, the authors lead readers into the psychology and lives of protagonists Kate and Gareth “Dru” McFadyn as they explore each other's worlds, indulge in passionate romance, and face challenges they couldn't have imagined. But how long can they stick together with the challenges that lie ahead?

Travis L. Salisbury and Janet C. Smyth's writing is very beautiful and crisp, laden with powerful descriptions and plot-driven dialogues. The narrative voice is confident and compelling. The authors use powerful literary styles like suspense, humor, and irony to boost interest in readers. The characters are real and the overall story very engaging. Defender: A Scottish-American Fairy Tale will undoubtedly appeal to a wide audience. It's the kind of story for those interested in character-driven plots.

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite

The Caves of Corihor by J.D. Shiner is a sensational thriller. California is in a severe drought. The economy is suffering. The state is on the brink of chaos, panic is escalating. “Life is glorious when kept in balance.” But what happens when life is shaken, turned inside out, then upside down? Moreover, what happens when all the shaking and quaking unearths something mysterious, hidden underground in California’s Sierra Nevada? These questions are just a few that the secret, highly classified agency of the PPI must answer. Napoleon Hancock and the PPI (Presidential Praetorian Initiative) are called into action. The President wants answers! The biggest question remains, could this drought be the result of a clever terrorist attack? It is time for Napoleon and his long time partner, Cassandra Caro, “to do what they do best.” The success of this mission is imperative. Once again, Napoleon and Cassandra are on an “ultra-secret mission, hurtling into the abyss of uncertainty in the name of national security.”

J.D. Shiner pens a high impact, action-packed adventure in The Caves of Corihor. It is a narrative where every minute counts. The plot consists of thrills and spills, death and destruction, super-sonic speeds, and endless action encompassing an ancient cave with rare artifacts. A secret government agency with elite agents using high tech gadgets, state-of-the-art weapons and communications devices make up the heroic cast of characters. On the flip side, the villains are sinister, patient, clever and evil with their deadly acts of terror. The clash between good and evil intensifies with every turn of the page. The action takes place on many fronts, and with each change of location Shiner shares tidbits of historical relevance, creating an interesting setting for his characters. The action rises with the finessed fury of an erupting volcano. You feel the heat, you sense the shaking, and you observe the overflow of molten energy ready to explode at just the right climactic moment. The climax causes your head to spin with the unbelievable discovery. Shiner brings to light that which has been hidden, deepening the plot by putting a suspenseful contemporary twist on an Old Testament story. The conclusion sets the reader up perfectly for the next book in The Sword of Abraham series.

Reviewed by Christian Sia for Readers' Favorite

The CleanSweep Conspiracy: A Matt Tremain Technothriller by Chuck Waldron is a strong opening for the Dystopian World Chronicles that features a powerful setting, a great conflict, and complex characters. This is the kind of fiction that will appeal to fans of thrillers, crime fiction, and the dystopian. Matt Tremain is an investigative blogger, a man with a “slight limp” who uncovers a conspiracy that could send rippling waves beyond the city of Toronto. A popular tycoon and a ruthless man, Charles Claussen has set up an operation that could ensure the deaths of the teeming number of homeless people that litter the streets of Toronto - they call it CleanSweep, and someone has got to stop it. But who can he trust? When Matt’s informant gets murdered, he knows he must tread carefully. In a city where people easily get manipulated, who can he trust?

Chuck Waldron establishes himself as a great storyteller, weaving a page-turner that is entertaining in an intoxicating kind of way. The CleanSweep Conspiracy: A Matt Tremain Technothriller has huge potential to appeal to fans of thrillers and crime fiction and those who are into conspiracy and intrigue. Matt Tremain is a compelling character, introduced from the very beginning of the story, a character that readers will adore. I enjoyed the way the author explores his loneliness, the psychological conflict that creates the dynamics of his work; indeed, heroes are loners! The plot is excellent, fast-paced, and laden with surprises. Then there is the ability of the author to ignite the reader’s attention by crafting scenes that end on a high note, announcing what could follow. I was hugely entertained and can’t wait for the next book in the series.