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Recommend this book:
The Acorn Stories
Second Edition
Duane Simolke
2024 Silver Medal
170 Pages
Check current price
Fiction - Anthology
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Duane Simolke's The Acorn Stories: Second Edition is a collection of inter-connected short stories about the inhabitants of the town of Acorn in West Texas. Two lovers try to control the trajectory of their relationship, unwittingly driving a wedge between each other. While swimming in the college campus pool, the narrator goes down memory lane and reminisces about his childhood sweetheart. A deaf and gay high school English teacher stands his ground against an ultra-conservative football coach. A misogynist unable to pay his rent tries to rekindle a relationship with his childhood crush. A landlady's Siamese cat keeps messing up her romantic entanglements. An old man waits eagerly for his loved ones to return, not realizing the passage of time. A talented artist gets another chance to pursue her passion with an unexpected gift from her husband.
Duane Simolke presents an enthralling collection of slice-of-life stories set in a fictional Texas town. These tales shed light on the various facets of human behavior and showcase how seemingly mundane events can change the course of people's lives. Simolke's characters are very well-developed and feel like people you may have met in real life. Becky, Regina, Kyle, and Dirk all have distinctive personalities, and their interactions create drama that is delicious to consume as a reader. There is a sense of authenticity to the town of Acorn itself, which makes the setting immersive and the tales all the more captivating. Some characters and relationships carry on through multiple stories, while others remain as standalones. As a short story lover, I thoroughly enjoyed The Acorn Stories: Second Edition. Highly recommended.
Duane Simolke's The Acorn Stories: Second Edition is a collection of inter-connected short stories about the inhabitants of the town of Acorn in West Texas. Two lovers try to control the trajectory of their relationship, unwittingly driving a wedge between each other. While swimming in the college campus pool, the narrator goes down memory lane and reminisces about his childhood sweetheart. A deaf and gay high school English teacher stands his ground against an ultra-conservative football coach. A misogynist unable to pay his rent tries to rekindle a relationship with his childhood crush. A landlady's Siamese cat keeps messing up her romantic entanglements. An old man waits eagerly for his loved ones to return, not realizing the passage of time. A talented artist gets another chance to pursue her passion with an unexpected gift from her husband.
Duane Simolke presents an enthralling collection of slice-of-life stories set in a fictional Texas town. These tales shed light on the various facets of human behavior and showcase how seemingly mundane events can change the course of people's lives. Simolke's characters are very well-developed and feel like people you may have met in real life. Becky, Regina, Kyle, and Dirk all have distinctive personalities, and their interactions create drama that is delicious to consume as a reader. There is a sense of authenticity to the town of Acorn itself, which makes the setting immersive and the tales all the more captivating. Some characters and relationships carry on through multiple stories, while others remain as standalones. As a short story lover, I thoroughly enjoyed The Acorn Stories: Second Edition. Highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Forest for the Trees & Other Stories
Mathieu Cailler
2024 Bronze Medal
258 Pages
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Fiction - Anthology
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Immerse yourself in an enthralling collection of fifteen short stories with Forest for the Trees & Other Stories. Written by Mathieu Cailler, this collection covers different aspects of the human experience. An Afghan war veteran draws on his years of military training to track down his wife's kidnapper, but not everything turns out the way he envisioned. A woman becomes increasingly exasperated with her husband's behavior at the new diner in town and takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane in remembrance of her former lover. A pregnant woman begins to have doubts over the couple who chose her for surrogacy. Recently released from prison, an elderly convict visits his son's house to see him one last time and ends up stealing a Porsche. A woman is in for a surprise when she asks her six-year-old grandson why he is crying.
Mathieu Cailler explores various facets of the human condition with this captivating collection. Forest for the Trees & Other Stories is an absorbing anthology that takes you on a journey through a broad spectrum of feelings, encompassing the good, bad, and everything in between that comprises the grand tapestry of life. These stories make you think about what it truly means to be human. Emotionally resonant and thematically rich, this is a must-read for short story lovers. Every tale has a surprise or two in store for you, yet each of these stories feels distinct and brings something unique of its own to the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed this collection and can't recommend it highly enough.
Immerse yourself in an enthralling collection of fifteen short stories with Forest for the Trees & Other Stories. Written by Mathieu Cailler, this collection covers different aspects of the human experience. An Afghan war veteran draws on his years of military training to track down his wife's kidnapper, but not everything turns out the way he envisioned. A woman becomes increasingly exasperated with her husband's behavior at the new diner in town and takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane in remembrance of her former lover. A pregnant woman begins to have doubts over the couple who chose her for surrogacy. Recently released from prison, an elderly convict visits his son's house to see him one last time and ends up stealing a Porsche. A woman is in for a surprise when she asks her six-year-old grandson why he is crying.
Mathieu Cailler explores various facets of the human condition with this captivating collection. Forest for the Trees & Other Stories is an absorbing anthology that takes you on a journey through a broad spectrum of feelings, encompassing the good, bad, and everything in between that comprises the grand tapestry of life. These stories make you think about what it truly means to be human. Emotionally resonant and thematically rich, this is a must-read for short story lovers. Every tale has a surprise or two in store for you, yet each of these stories feels distinct and brings something unique of its own to the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed this collection and can't recommend it highly enough.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/the-healing-book&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41mn%2BQOo23L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=The Healing Book by Dustin Grinnell is a collection of short, slice-of-life stories about people trying to navigate the various absurdities of life. "An Affable Man" follows a young man disillusioned with his corporate career who finally finds meaning in his life after a chance encounter with a captive orca. A mother worries about her rebellious da...){kind=link}
The Healing Book
Dustin Grinnell
2024 Honorable Mention
186 Pages
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Fiction - Anthology
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
The Healing Book by Dustin Grinnell is a collection of short, slice-of-life stories about people trying to navigate the various absurdities of life. "An Affable Man" follows a young man disillusioned with his corporate career who finally finds meaning in his life after a chance encounter with a captive orca. A mother worries about her rebellious daughter and is pleasantly surprised when her daughter breaks the cycle of being an overprotective parent with her own child in "The Good Parent." In "Cured," a Harvard immunologist working with malaria-infected patients in Kenya finds his belief once again. A grieving husband turns to bibliotherapy as a last resort to cure his dying wife of cancer in "The Healing Book." "The Disciple" follows the experiences of a woman caught in the trappings of a con man's cult.
Through these short stories, author Dustin Grinnell places ordinary men and women in situations where they reevaluate their core beliefs and ideologies to circumvent their circumstances. The Healing Book is a riveting short story collection that forces you to introspect and offers a glimpse of life through the perspectives of people from a wide variety of backgrounds trying to overcome its challenges and hurdles in their own ways. All the characters in these stories feel like real people coming to terms with their own shortcomings and being human in their vulnerabilities. Despite the underlying existential themes integrated into the tales, Grinnell manages to make each story feel distinct and unique on its own. All in all, a brilliant collection for short story readers.
The Healing Book by Dustin Grinnell is a collection of short, slice-of-life stories about people trying to navigate the various absurdities of life. "An Affable Man" follows a young man disillusioned with his corporate career who finally finds meaning in his life after a chance encounter with a captive orca. A mother worries about her rebellious daughter and is pleasantly surprised when her daughter breaks the cycle of being an overprotective parent with her own child in "The Good Parent." In "Cured," a Harvard immunologist working with malaria-infected patients in Kenya finds his belief once again. A grieving husband turns to bibliotherapy as a last resort to cure his dying wife of cancer in "The Healing Book." "The Disciple" follows the experiences of a woman caught in the trappings of a con man's cult.
Through these short stories, author Dustin Grinnell places ordinary men and women in situations where they reevaluate their core beliefs and ideologies to circumvent their circumstances. The Healing Book is a riveting short story collection that forces you to introspect and offers a glimpse of life through the perspectives of people from a wide variety of backgrounds trying to overcome its challenges and hurdles in their own ways. All the characters in these stories feel like real people coming to terms with their own shortcomings and being human in their vulnerabilities. Despite the underlying existential themes integrated into the tales, Grinnell manages to make each story feel distinct and unique on its own. All in all, a brilliant collection for short story readers.
Recommend this book:
The Girl In The Toile Wallpaper
Mary K. Savarese
2024 Silver Medal
Audio Book
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Fiction - Audiobook
Reviewed by Bernadette Longu for Readers' Favorite
The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper by Mary K. Savarese is a most intriguing romance that includes time travel, adventures in both worlds, and the marrying of historical events to the present without drastically changing history as a whole. The characters in the story come to life beautifully both in the present and in the past; Taylor, Dante, Lily, Megan, and Patrick the Celestial cat who is the catalyst that will put things to right and along the correct path in both worlds. The author makes good use of her characters as she weaves a fascinating story linking two different worlds.
In The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper by Mary K Savarese, the characters take the reader on a journey both in the present and in the past in the most delightful way. The introduction of Fabricio and his cats is the secret that is slowly revealed to be the most important part of this wonderful story and introduces a historical fact that started during the colonization of America and is still very much part of the 21st century. The story is brought to light most delightfully, taking the characters on a journey of discovery and adventure that changes only a small part of history for the better, leaving the rest of history the same.
This audiobook is read by Laura Schreiber. She has a lovely voice and managed to interpret the characters wonderfully and bring them to life vividly. The quotes before each chapter are so beautiful and form an important part of the story. Laura Schreiber read these quotes most eloquently and with depth. Laura read the entire book clearly and the audio quality was clear. Unsurprisingly, this book received the International Dragonfly Award for Fantasy Adventure. It was a pleasure to listen to this book and it is well worth a second listen.
The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper by Mary K. Savarese is a most intriguing romance that includes time travel, adventures in both worlds, and the marrying of historical events to the present without drastically changing history as a whole. The characters in the story come to life beautifully both in the present and in the past; Taylor, Dante, Lily, Megan, and Patrick the Celestial cat who is the catalyst that will put things to right and along the correct path in both worlds. The author makes good use of her characters as she weaves a fascinating story linking two different worlds.
In The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper by Mary K Savarese, the characters take the reader on a journey both in the present and in the past in the most delightful way. The introduction of Fabricio and his cats is the secret that is slowly revealed to be the most important part of this wonderful story and introduces a historical fact that started during the colonization of America and is still very much part of the 21st century. The story is brought to light most delightfully, taking the characters on a journey of discovery and adventure that changes only a small part of history for the better, leaving the rest of history the same.
This audiobook is read by Laura Schreiber. She has a lovely voice and managed to interpret the characters wonderfully and bring them to life vividly. The quotes before each chapter are so beautiful and form an important part of the story. Laura Schreiber read these quotes most eloquently and with depth. Laura read the entire book clearly and the audio quality was clear. Unsurprisingly, this book received the International Dragonfly Award for Fantasy Adventure. It was a pleasure to listen to this book and it is well worth a second listen.
Recommend this book:
The Day Of The Martians (audiobook)
Vol. 1 of The Martian Diaries, continuing The War Of The Worlds
H.E. Wilburson
2024 Bronze Medal
Audio Book
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Fiction - Audiobook
Reviewed by Justine Reyes for Readers' Favorite
The Day of the Martians: The Martian Diaries Volume 1 is H.E. Wilburton's sequel to The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells. The story takes place ten years after the events of The War of the Worlds, when readers are introduced to the narrator and his wife. The pair is having breakfast when something in the newspaper catches their eye. A Martian cylinder has been uncovered in the Welsh mountains and was transferred over to London to be studied and displayed along with other Martian artifacts from the initial attack. Ogilvy, the scientist in charge of the display and study, explains to the narrator that he has put the Martian paraphernalia on display to remind the public of the Martian attack and the high probability that they will return some time before Christmas. Could his prediction be correct? You'll have to listen in to find out.
The audio book was unexpected and a great touch. After all, The War of the Worlds had been infamous for starting a mass panic when it was broadcast on American radio for an anthology series known as The Mercury Theatre on the Air. Listening to The Day of the Martians had me awestruck; the atmospheric music, the ambiance, the narration, and above all the story itself. It takes place in 1913 when science and speculation about aliens was still a bit of a niche interest. The Day of the Martians will capture listeners' imaginations and wonder. It certainly captured mine. I implore fans of H.G. Wells and fans of the science fiction genre to listen and savor the adventure which H.E. Wilburson has given us. I greatly appreciated Terry Thompson and Harry Preston's astounding performances. This was more than an audio book. This was, in many ways, a wonderfully executed tribute to H.G. Wells.
The Day of the Martians: The Martian Diaries Volume 1 is H.E. Wilburton's sequel to The War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells. The story takes place ten years after the events of The War of the Worlds, when readers are introduced to the narrator and his wife. The pair is having breakfast when something in the newspaper catches their eye. A Martian cylinder has been uncovered in the Welsh mountains and was transferred over to London to be studied and displayed along with other Martian artifacts from the initial attack. Ogilvy, the scientist in charge of the display and study, explains to the narrator that he has put the Martian paraphernalia on display to remind the public of the Martian attack and the high probability that they will return some time before Christmas. Could his prediction be correct? You'll have to listen in to find out.
The audio book was unexpected and a great touch. After all, The War of the Worlds had been infamous for starting a mass panic when it was broadcast on American radio for an anthology series known as The Mercury Theatre on the Air. Listening to The Day of the Martians had me awestruck; the atmospheric music, the ambiance, the narration, and above all the story itself. It takes place in 1913 when science and speculation about aliens was still a bit of a niche interest. The Day of the Martians will capture listeners' imaginations and wonder. It certainly captured mine. I implore fans of H.G. Wells and fans of the science fiction genre to listen and savor the adventure which H.E. Wilburson has given us. I greatly appreciated Terry Thompson and Harry Preston's astounding performances. This was more than an audio book. This was, in many ways, a wonderfully executed tribute to H.G. Wells.
Recommend this book:
The Wolven Mark
Hidden Legends: University of Sorcery Book 1
Megan Linski
2024 Honorable Mention
Audio Book
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Fiction - Audiobook
Reviewed by Priya Mathew for Readers' Favorite
The Wolven Mark is the first book in the 6-part University of Sorcery Series by Megan Linski. Emma is thrust into the magical world of Malovia after having lived her whole life with no knowledge of her magical abilities as a sorceress. Ethan is the heir apparent of Malovia and is at the top of the social structure before he loses his father and his leg in an attack. Grieving from the loss, he must find his mate in four months to participate in the King’s Contest. Black Claw, a rebel faction, has amped up their efforts to cause unrest in the kingdom and there is a vigilante on the loose who has taken up the cause to bring the rebels down. As new alliances are being built and new friendships formed, will Emma and Ethan be able to work together to win the contest?
I was introduced to Megan Linski’s Academy of Magical Creatures series last year and I still remember the angst I felt while reading what the characters went through in each of her books. The Wolven Mark didn’t miss the mark with that expectation. As a fan of Megan’s previous series, I loved the way this series started. This book has set the characters who would play a prime role in this series. Each of the characters has their quirks and abilities and you are part of the group as you participate in this adventure. The narrative is fast-paced, with unexpected twists which only add to the suspense. If you hate cliffhangers, get a copy of the whole series before starting this book, because once you start reading, I’m sure you’ll want to know where the adventure leads Ethan, Emma, and their friends.
Maxx Pinkins and Liana Walsh have brought this narrative to life in the audio version. They not only clearly distinguished between Ethan's and Emma’s perspectives but were also able to bring their emotions to life, making me laugh and feel like biting my nails, along with the characters. I liked how Liana used distinct vocal inflections to bring Emma’s friends to life and this enhanced the audio experience.
The Wolven Mark is the first book in the 6-part University of Sorcery Series by Megan Linski. Emma is thrust into the magical world of Malovia after having lived her whole life with no knowledge of her magical abilities as a sorceress. Ethan is the heir apparent of Malovia and is at the top of the social structure before he loses his father and his leg in an attack. Grieving from the loss, he must find his mate in four months to participate in the King’s Contest. Black Claw, a rebel faction, has amped up their efforts to cause unrest in the kingdom and there is a vigilante on the loose who has taken up the cause to bring the rebels down. As new alliances are being built and new friendships formed, will Emma and Ethan be able to work together to win the contest?
I was introduced to Megan Linski’s Academy of Magical Creatures series last year and I still remember the angst I felt while reading what the characters went through in each of her books. The Wolven Mark didn’t miss the mark with that expectation. As a fan of Megan’s previous series, I loved the way this series started. This book has set the characters who would play a prime role in this series. Each of the characters has their quirks and abilities and you are part of the group as you participate in this adventure. The narrative is fast-paced, with unexpected twists which only add to the suspense. If you hate cliffhangers, get a copy of the whole series before starting this book, because once you start reading, I’m sure you’ll want to know where the adventure leads Ethan, Emma, and their friends.
Maxx Pinkins and Liana Walsh have brought this narrative to life in the audio version. They not only clearly distinguished between Ethan's and Emma’s perspectives but were also able to bring their emotions to life, making me laugh and feel like biting my nails, along with the characters. I liked how Liana used distinct vocal inflections to bring Emma’s friends to life and this enhanced the audio experience.
Recommend this book:
The First Harm
A Medical Thriller
Steven Piskula (Author), Sara Van Beckum (Narrator)
2024 Finalist
Audio Book
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Fiction - Audiobook
Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite
The accolades, money, and fans are some things that Jason missed the most, but that is all in the past now. He had just left rehabilitation, but even his brother didn't want him close to his family. He didn't want to call, but the urge was too strong; maybe this was who he was. Tanna is a first-year medical student keen to prove herself to the extent that she decides to access the anatomy laboratory during unauthorized hours. What does she find in her dissections that leads to the death of Crystal? Dr. Emerson is a brilliant scientist working on groundbreaking work in genetics in the Second Nature program. He has been doing work since his mentor, Dr. Solomon, left. Is Dr. Emerson ethical, and does Dr. Solomon want to help Tanna and Jason, or is he self-serving? Get a copy of The First Harm by Steven Piskula to find out.
This was my first experience with an audiobook, and The First Harm by Steven Piskula didn't disappoint. The fast-paced narration and the flawlessly flowing plotline kept me entertained and intrigued. I loved how Steven utilized suspense, and the twists and turns as the story unfolded kept me on edge. The characters are also well-developed, contributing greatly to the book's overall appeal. I also found it to be thought-provoking. There are so many advancements in microbiology, biochemistry, and others. The book got me thinking about the moral responsibility of scientists and the balance between doing good and preserving the integrity of human beings and medical ethics.
Sarah Van Beckum did an excellent job narrating this book. She brought the story to life with her melodious voice and changed intonation wherever necessary. She did such a good job that it is hard to imagine that only one person narrates the book. I cannot wait to listen to something else narrated by this voice performer.
The accolades, money, and fans are some things that Jason missed the most, but that is all in the past now. He had just left rehabilitation, but even his brother didn't want him close to his family. He didn't want to call, but the urge was too strong; maybe this was who he was. Tanna is a first-year medical student keen to prove herself to the extent that she decides to access the anatomy laboratory during unauthorized hours. What does she find in her dissections that leads to the death of Crystal? Dr. Emerson is a brilliant scientist working on groundbreaking work in genetics in the Second Nature program. He has been doing work since his mentor, Dr. Solomon, left. Is Dr. Emerson ethical, and does Dr. Solomon want to help Tanna and Jason, or is he self-serving? Get a copy of The First Harm by Steven Piskula to find out.
This was my first experience with an audiobook, and The First Harm by Steven Piskula didn't disappoint. The fast-paced narration and the flawlessly flowing plotline kept me entertained and intrigued. I loved how Steven utilized suspense, and the twists and turns as the story unfolded kept me on edge. The characters are also well-developed, contributing greatly to the book's overall appeal. I also found it to be thought-provoking. There are so many advancements in microbiology, biochemistry, and others. The book got me thinking about the moral responsibility of scientists and the balance between doing good and preserving the integrity of human beings and medical ethics.
Sarah Van Beckum did an excellent job narrating this book. She brought the story to life with her melodious voice and changed intonation wherever necessary. She did such a good job that it is hard to imagine that only one person narrates the book. I cannot wait to listen to something else narrated by this voice performer.
Recommend this book:
The Space Between Us
An enemies-to-lovers, billionaire, forced proximity, only one bed romantic comedy (Love Struck Romantic Comedy Series Book 1)
Melanie Summers
2024 Gold Medal
368 Pages
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Fiction - Chick Lit
Reviewed by Keana Sackett-Moomey for Readers' Favorite
The Space Between Us is a hilarious romantic comedy by Melanie Summers that centers on two prospective lovebirds, Gwen Fox, an astrobiologist, and Ty Sterling, a wealthy CEO. Ty wants to cut funding for Gwen and her research team, but Gwen isn't about to let that happen. She's just as feisty and stubborn as Ty. Thus begins a romantic adventure with this dynamic duo. Gwen and Ty are forced into close proximity on a business trip in the jungles of Peru. This is all part of Ty's dying business partner's final request. Sharing a small tent prompts these two enemies to finally "see" each other and acknowledge their mutually growing attraction. It's only a matter of time before they give in to their feelings. Or will pride get in the way? For the sake of our hearts, we hope it's the first scenario.
If you love reading enthralling enemies-turned-friends-turned-lovers sagas, this intoxicating novel has it all. I recommend The Space Between Us by Melanie Summers to every romance lover. This rom-com is no doubt a 5-star read. Gwen and Ty are fantastic. I feel like a spectator in their love story. I admire their personalities, red-hot chemistry, and how well their relationship progressed throughout the storyline. I enjoyed reading the story from both their POVs. Altogether, the passion, chemistry, racy banter, and spicy moments between them will have your head (and heart) in ecstasy for days without ceasing. End conclusion—if you're looking for a steamy read with good character development, this alluring rom-com is the perfect book for you.
The Space Between Us is a hilarious romantic comedy by Melanie Summers that centers on two prospective lovebirds, Gwen Fox, an astrobiologist, and Ty Sterling, a wealthy CEO. Ty wants to cut funding for Gwen and her research team, but Gwen isn't about to let that happen. She's just as feisty and stubborn as Ty. Thus begins a romantic adventure with this dynamic duo. Gwen and Ty are forced into close proximity on a business trip in the jungles of Peru. This is all part of Ty's dying business partner's final request. Sharing a small tent prompts these two enemies to finally "see" each other and acknowledge their mutually growing attraction. It's only a matter of time before they give in to their feelings. Or will pride get in the way? For the sake of our hearts, we hope it's the first scenario.
If you love reading enthralling enemies-turned-friends-turned-lovers sagas, this intoxicating novel has it all. I recommend The Space Between Us by Melanie Summers to every romance lover. This rom-com is no doubt a 5-star read. Gwen and Ty are fantastic. I feel like a spectator in their love story. I admire their personalities, red-hot chemistry, and how well their relationship progressed throughout the storyline. I enjoyed reading the story from both their POVs. Altogether, the passion, chemistry, racy banter, and spicy moments between them will have your head (and heart) in ecstasy for days without ceasing. End conclusion—if you're looking for a steamy read with good character development, this alluring rom-com is the perfect book for you.
Recommend this book:
The Bone Scraper Legacy
A Historical Occult Mystery
Gabriel Farago
2024 Gold Medal
264 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by Eric Ferrar for Readers' Favorite
The Bone Scraper Legacy by Gabriel Farago tells the tale of Jack Rogan, an esteemed Australian author, who is pulled into a figurative rabbit hole shrouded in suspense, adventure, and danger. Jack is dining with his friend, Tristian, one night when Tristian is asked to speak with his dying uncle, a Maori, who lives in New Zealand. Both Jack and Tristian go to see the dying man. Tristian learns about an ancient Maori chief, the Bone Scraper, who was defeated in battle. Tristian has to retrieve Bone Scraper's lost skull and return it to his family for a proper burial so his soul can rest in peace. Jack decides to help his friend locate the missing skull. They are aided by their associates Claude, Isis, and Mademoiselle Darrieux. Jack and Tristian's adventures pit them head-to-head against the deadly world of murder and the occult. Will they achieve their mission and live to tell the tale?
The settings, locations, and cultures mentioned will carry you into a world full of color, cuisine, and style. In my mind, I went for the adventure and ended up staying for the culture. I learned a lot about the Maori culture from this book. Overall, I found The Bone Scraper Legacy to be fascinating, informative, and rewarding. Gabriel Farago's bold writing makes this a hypnotic tale that will keep you occupied and turning the pages late into the night. Jack is a character I can root for any day. He's courageous, loyal, and intelligent. He's the modern version of Sherlock Holmes. This winning combination of action, adventure, danger, and suspense will keep readers wanting more. Since this is novella five in the Jack Rogan series, I'm immediately inspired to read the other books. I'm sure I won't be disappointed. I recommend this sensational read to fans of historical mystery novels.
The Bone Scraper Legacy by Gabriel Farago tells the tale of Jack Rogan, an esteemed Australian author, who is pulled into a figurative rabbit hole shrouded in suspense, adventure, and danger. Jack is dining with his friend, Tristian, one night when Tristian is asked to speak with his dying uncle, a Maori, who lives in New Zealand. Both Jack and Tristian go to see the dying man. Tristian learns about an ancient Maori chief, the Bone Scraper, who was defeated in battle. Tristian has to retrieve Bone Scraper's lost skull and return it to his family for a proper burial so his soul can rest in peace. Jack decides to help his friend locate the missing skull. They are aided by their associates Claude, Isis, and Mademoiselle Darrieux. Jack and Tristian's adventures pit them head-to-head against the deadly world of murder and the occult. Will they achieve their mission and live to tell the tale?
The settings, locations, and cultures mentioned will carry you into a world full of color, cuisine, and style. In my mind, I went for the adventure and ended up staying for the culture. I learned a lot about the Maori culture from this book. Overall, I found The Bone Scraper Legacy to be fascinating, informative, and rewarding. Gabriel Farago's bold writing makes this a hypnotic tale that will keep you occupied and turning the pages late into the night. Jack is a character I can root for any day. He's courageous, loyal, and intelligent. He's the modern version of Sherlock Holmes. This winning combination of action, adventure, danger, and suspense will keep readers wanting more. Since this is novella five in the Jack Rogan series, I'm immediately inspired to read the other books. I'm sure I won't be disappointed. I recommend this sensational read to fans of historical mystery novels.
Recommend this book:
All the Natural Beauties
CJ O'Hara Thrillers Book 1
John Deal
2024 Silver Medal
426 Pages
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Fiction - Crime
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
All the Natural Beauties is a work of fiction in the crime, thriller, and psychological drama genres, and is the opening novel of the CJ O'Hara Thrillers series. Penned by author John Deal, the plot follows Detective CJ O'Hara as she navigates guilt over her family's deaths and her past actions while hunting down the serial killer known as The Lowcountry Killer. Moving to Charleston to start anew, CJ faces mounting bodies, FBI intervention, and suspicion falling on her new partner. As the stakes rise and her instincts are tested, CJ must confront her demons and the possibility of deadly consequences. Deal demonstrates a fantastic flair for suspense and action in this intense and riveting read, immersing readers deeply in the world of Detective CJ O'Hara and the exciting hunt for a ruthless serial killer.
John Deal's dark and suspenseful narrative moves through many twists naturally and stealthily, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as each twist and turn creeps up on them from the next set of dire circumstances. CJ's complex character is developed well through confident narration that lets readers into her unique point of view. I was impressed with the way dialogue was used to offer natural plot exposition that never sacrificed the pace of the action but also allowed one to read between the lines as CJ continued to develop through her trials. The atmospheric setting of Charleston and the chilling portrayal of the killer's crimes were handled well to offer just the right level of spine-chilling detail without overdoing it. Overall, All the Natural Beauties is a must-read for fans of crime and psychological thrillers, offering a captivating blend of suspense, mystery, and unexpected revelations.
All the Natural Beauties is a work of fiction in the crime, thriller, and psychological drama genres, and is the opening novel of the CJ O'Hara Thrillers series. Penned by author John Deal, the plot follows Detective CJ O'Hara as she navigates guilt over her family's deaths and her past actions while hunting down the serial killer known as The Lowcountry Killer. Moving to Charleston to start anew, CJ faces mounting bodies, FBI intervention, and suspicion falling on her new partner. As the stakes rise and her instincts are tested, CJ must confront her demons and the possibility of deadly consequences. Deal demonstrates a fantastic flair for suspense and action in this intense and riveting read, immersing readers deeply in the world of Detective CJ O'Hara and the exciting hunt for a ruthless serial killer.
John Deal's dark and suspenseful narrative moves through many twists naturally and stealthily, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as each twist and turn creeps up on them from the next set of dire circumstances. CJ's complex character is developed well through confident narration that lets readers into her unique point of view. I was impressed with the way dialogue was used to offer natural plot exposition that never sacrificed the pace of the action but also allowed one to read between the lines as CJ continued to develop through her trials. The atmospheric setting of Charleston and the chilling portrayal of the killer's crimes were handled well to offer just the right level of spine-chilling detail without overdoing it. Overall, All the Natural Beauties is a must-read for fans of crime and psychological thrillers, offering a captivating blend of suspense, mystery, and unexpected revelations.
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