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alookinsideri's reviews
519 reviews
Laws of Wrath by Eriq La Salle
5.0
Eriq La Salle's Laws of Wrath took me by surprise. For some reason,I was looking for something along the lines of Sci-Fi and found a well-plotted Thriller instead. If you like a lot of details and background information to help you understand the characters, then Eriq La Salle does a great job with that. He creates a nice balance between each character's background and their present-day personalities,without making the reader feel as though they're receiving a historical lecture.
When the story begins, Eriq shocks us with one of the characters, Dr. Zibik, who I thought would have a short and insignificant role at first. He paints this timid and shy picture of her until she is escorted inside the all women's maximum security prison; here, Dr. Zibik's character transforms into this lethal killer and invokes fear in the other inmates, as soon as the handcuffs come off. Her mission to exercise control inside a prison complex is accomplished. No one wants to tango with the Devil.
The meat of the story begins to unfold a couple of chapters in, starting with the broken relationship between A.J., the trans-sexual, and his brother Phee, a New York officer. It's not before long when tragedy strikes Clay's home and his youngest son, Phee, must deliver the news of A.J.'s death. What Eriq does with this situation, is take us back in time to Clay's violent past. At the news of Clay's eldest son's death, he begins to wonder if karma came to pay him a visit for the lives he took many years earlier. In spite the strained relationship he had with A.J., Eriq is careful not to bury Clay's love for his son. He does the same with Phee. He plays on Phee's guilt for failing to help A.J. when he was alive, by tormenting him with A.J.'s gutted corpse and lidless eyes staring at him in the morgue. It almost seems as though this tragedy is Phee's motive to reconcile on a spiritual level with his dead brother; with the help of his partner Quincy, Phee races against the clock to put this and a string of other mysterious murders to bed. This is when Zibik's character really comes to life as the mastermind, the manipulator, the True Throne. When the Feds use Zibik to get to the perpetrators responsible for the mysterious murders, it all plays in Zibik's favor... for a while.
No one goes unnoticed in this book. Every character has a story and yet, all eyes are still on Phee and the investigation. Things are shaken up when the investigation gets turned upside down, Phee goes AWOL and is torn between being a cop and a civilian; Quincy is still trying to play it by the books while Phee is out for blood.
Eriq La Salle has made Laws of Wrath well worth the read. If you're looking for an intense, drama-filled plot, this book is packed with it. You will be on your toes all the way to the end.
Worth five stars.
When the story begins, Eriq shocks us with one of the characters, Dr. Zibik, who I thought would have a short and insignificant role at first. He paints this timid and shy picture of her until she is escorted inside the all women's maximum security prison; here, Dr. Zibik's character transforms into this lethal killer and invokes fear in the other inmates, as soon as the handcuffs come off. Her mission to exercise control inside a prison complex is accomplished. No one wants to tango with the Devil.
The meat of the story begins to unfold a couple of chapters in, starting with the broken relationship between A.J., the trans-sexual, and his brother Phee, a New York officer. It's not before long when tragedy strikes Clay's home and his youngest son, Phee, must deliver the news of A.J.'s death. What Eriq does with this situation, is take us back in time to Clay's violent past. At the news of Clay's eldest son's death, he begins to wonder if karma came to pay him a visit for the lives he took many years earlier. In spite the strained relationship he had with A.J., Eriq is careful not to bury Clay's love for his son. He does the same with Phee. He plays on Phee's guilt for failing to help A.J. when he was alive, by tormenting him with A.J.'s gutted corpse and lidless eyes staring at him in the morgue. It almost seems as though this tragedy is Phee's motive to reconcile on a spiritual level with his dead brother; with the help of his partner Quincy, Phee races against the clock to put this and a string of other mysterious murders to bed. This is when Zibik's character really comes to life as the mastermind, the manipulator, the True Throne. When the Feds use Zibik to get to the perpetrators responsible for the mysterious murders, it all plays in Zibik's favor... for a while.
No one goes unnoticed in this book. Every character has a story and yet, all eyes are still on Phee and the investigation. Things are shaken up when the investigation gets turned upside down, Phee goes AWOL and is torn between being a cop and a civilian; Quincy is still trying to play it by the books while Phee is out for blood.
Eriq La Salle has made Laws of Wrath well worth the read. If you're looking for an intense, drama-filled plot, this book is packed with it. You will be on your toes all the way to the end.
Worth five stars.
Dear Wife by Kimberly Belle
4.0
Prepare to be entangled in a scandalous journey down the rabbit hole, where the thrill of each page turn will leave you breathless, clutching your pearls, and craving more.
Dear Wife is a heart-pounding thriller that takes you on a wild ride, pushing the boundaries of your sanity. With its wickedly intricate plot and jaw-dropping twists, it promises to deliver a twisted tale like no other. Imagine the intense atmosphere of Sleeping with the Enemy blended with the mind games of Gone Girl. Beth has spent nearly a year meticulously planning her escape. Every detail has been carefully calculated - a new identity, a new appearance, and a new city. One wrong move, and her husband will track her down. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable.
Meanwhile, Jeffrey returns home from a business trip to discover his wife, Sabine, missing without a trace. She has seemingly vanished into thin air, leaving behind no personal belongings. The abandoned car becomes the only clue for the perplexed police, pointing to a potential crime.
As the investigation unfolds, the case grows increasingly convoluted. Sabine's elaborate plans for a fresh start suggest trouble within their marriage and a husband who may have more to gain from her disappearance. But nothing is as straightforward as it seems. Where is Sabine? And who is Beth? Amidst a web of lies, one thing is certain: someone is hiding the truth, and it won't remain buried for long.
Kimberly Belle masterfully crafts Dear Wife to trigger a whirlwind of mind-bending, heart-pounding, and emotionally gripping sensations. Her expertise in weaving thrilling narratives shines through every page, leaving readers unable to put the book down. Just when you believe you have unraveled the plot, a twist emerges, turning the story on its head. The carefully constructed storytelling compels you to savor each moment, resisting the urge to skip ahead and discover the truth prematurely. Trust me, the journey is well worth every twist and turn.
Get ready for a gripping literary experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dear Wife is a book you won't be able to resist diving into, as it unravels a twisted world of secrets and deception at every corner.
Dear Wife is a heart-pounding thriller that takes you on a wild ride, pushing the boundaries of your sanity. With its wickedly intricate plot and jaw-dropping twists, it promises to deliver a twisted tale like no other. Imagine the intense atmosphere of Sleeping with the Enemy blended with the mind games of Gone Girl. Beth has spent nearly a year meticulously planning her escape. Every detail has been carefully calculated - a new identity, a new appearance, and a new city. One wrong move, and her husband will track her down. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable.
Meanwhile, Jeffrey returns home from a business trip to discover his wife, Sabine, missing without a trace. She has seemingly vanished into thin air, leaving behind no personal belongings. The abandoned car becomes the only clue for the perplexed police, pointing to a potential crime.
As the investigation unfolds, the case grows increasingly convoluted. Sabine's elaborate plans for a fresh start suggest trouble within their marriage and a husband who may have more to gain from her disappearance. But nothing is as straightforward as it seems. Where is Sabine? And who is Beth? Amidst a web of lies, one thing is certain: someone is hiding the truth, and it won't remain buried for long.
Kimberly Belle masterfully crafts Dear Wife to trigger a whirlwind of mind-bending, heart-pounding, and emotionally gripping sensations. Her expertise in weaving thrilling narratives shines through every page, leaving readers unable to put the book down. Just when you believe you have unraveled the plot, a twist emerges, turning the story on its head. The carefully constructed storytelling compels you to savor each moment, resisting the urge to skip ahead and discover the truth prematurely. Trust me, the journey is well worth every twist and turn.
Get ready for a gripping literary experience that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Dear Wife is a book you won't be able to resist diving into, as it unravels a twisted world of secrets and deception at every corner.
Delusional by Scott Spotson
5.0
Romantic affairs? Gallery heists? Hallucinations? Secrets? Temper tantrums? Illusionists?
Scott Spotson's Delusional invites us into the lives of some interesting but mildly flawed characters from various walks of life. Ok, so perhaps some are more flawed than others but who's judging? At any rate, you may find yourselves empathetic toward some of the helpless characters in this story and seething with a furious passion toward others midway through the pages. It's a soap opera on paper-you may yell and curse at some of the most sordid characters in this book but I guarantee that you won't put it down. Somewhat of a tease, this book arouses several different emotions in the reader at different turning points in the story. This book doesn't leave room for the reader to settle into what is initially a tranquil scene painted out somewhere overlooking the Sierra Nevada Mountains before it begins to pick up the pace, baffling investigators trying to piece together the mystery of the Hope Diamond and authentic art that has gone missing, then making its subjects the objects of mental apprehension and torment. Delusional proves that everything on the surface is never as it may seem - deception is not too far removed from rearing its ugly head.
The highlight of the story is Patricia Fowler, a marketing executive who finds herself tangled in a romantic web that soon has her hallucinating and fighting hard not to question whether Paul Blast or maybe a psychopath is behind her delusional experiences. To those on the outside looking in at Paul Blast, he appears to have it made; the Lamborghini, the mansion, vacations to the Cayman Islands, the rich wife - but he soon comes to grips with the reality of the dark void renting space in his heart and is faced with making the ultimate decision that will alter his life. Wendy Jewett, Paul's rich and bratty wife, seems to be more in love with her ability to make other peoples' lives miserable when she can't have her way, than with her own husband. Then there is the artist Samantha Des Jardins, enamored of her delusions, yet too comfortable to embrace reality.
This is not a book to put down. Spotson does an excellent job in stroking the curiosities of his readers and slathering the pallets with scenes that at first appear unrelated to each other but come together to uncover the hidden truths and dark secrets. I especially loved how the author creatively played with the idea of illusion and magic, giving this book a Criss Angel-ish intimation. This book is well deserving of 5 stars.
Scott Spotson's Delusional invites us into the lives of some interesting but mildly flawed characters from various walks of life. Ok, so perhaps some are more flawed than others but who's judging? At any rate, you may find yourselves empathetic toward some of the helpless characters in this story and seething with a furious passion toward others midway through the pages. It's a soap opera on paper-you may yell and curse at some of the most sordid characters in this book but I guarantee that you won't put it down. Somewhat of a tease, this book arouses several different emotions in the reader at different turning points in the story. This book doesn't leave room for the reader to settle into what is initially a tranquil scene painted out somewhere overlooking the Sierra Nevada Mountains before it begins to pick up the pace, baffling investigators trying to piece together the mystery of the Hope Diamond and authentic art that has gone missing, then making its subjects the objects of mental apprehension and torment. Delusional proves that everything on the surface is never as it may seem - deception is not too far removed from rearing its ugly head.
The highlight of the story is Patricia Fowler, a marketing executive who finds herself tangled in a romantic web that soon has her hallucinating and fighting hard not to question whether Paul Blast or maybe a psychopath is behind her delusional experiences. To those on the outside looking in at Paul Blast, he appears to have it made; the Lamborghini, the mansion, vacations to the Cayman Islands, the rich wife - but he soon comes to grips with the reality of the dark void renting space in his heart and is faced with making the ultimate decision that will alter his life. Wendy Jewett, Paul's rich and bratty wife, seems to be more in love with her ability to make other peoples' lives miserable when she can't have her way, than with her own husband. Then there is the artist Samantha Des Jardins, enamored of her delusions, yet too comfortable to embrace reality.
This is not a book to put down. Spotson does an excellent job in stroking the curiosities of his readers and slathering the pallets with scenes that at first appear unrelated to each other but come together to uncover the hidden truths and dark secrets. I especially loved how the author creatively played with the idea of illusion and magic, giving this book a Criss Angel-ish intimation. This book is well deserving of 5 stars.
The Fraudulent Psalmist by S. Cassadera
4.0
In The Fraudulent Psalmist, author S. Cassadera introduces us to the sordid life of Kalief, a character who is anything but righteous. Despite being chosen by Pastor Caleb to join the Sanctified Soul Pentecostal church and become a Psalmist, Kalief is a wolf in sheep's clothing, hiding his violent and abusive tendencies behind his role in the church. For readers who have previously encountered Kalief in Wolves in Sheep's Clothing, this book offers a new perspective on the character and a chance to see him in a completely different light.
As the story unfolds, we are taken on a dark and twisted journey, as we witness Kalief's deceptive ways and the hidden agendas that threaten to unravel the entire congregation. It is a cautionary tale that exposes the dangers of unchecked power and the corrupting influence of those who seek to control others. Through the lens of Kalief's story, we see the ugly truth that lies at the heart of many organized religions and the potential for exploitation that exists within them.
Despite the dark themes and disturbing subject matter, The Fraudulent Psalmist is a gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its fast-paced narrative and complex characters, it is a book that demands to be read in one sitting. And while the story is certainly not for the faint of heart, it is one that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your popcorn and your latte, and settle in for a wild and terrifying ride through the twisted world of Kalief and the Sanctified Soul Pentecostal church.
As the story unfolds, we are taken on a dark and twisted journey, as we witness Kalief's deceptive ways and the hidden agendas that threaten to unravel the entire congregation. It is a cautionary tale that exposes the dangers of unchecked power and the corrupting influence of those who seek to control others. Through the lens of Kalief's story, we see the ugly truth that lies at the heart of many organized religions and the potential for exploitation that exists within them.
Despite the dark themes and disturbing subject matter, The Fraudulent Psalmist is a gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its fast-paced narrative and complex characters, it is a book that demands to be read in one sitting. And while the story is certainly not for the faint of heart, it is one that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So grab your popcorn and your latte, and settle in for a wild and terrifying ride through the twisted world of Kalief and the Sanctified Soul Pentecostal church.
Cursed Plantation by D.E. Grant
4.0
Cursed Plantation by D.E. Grant, is a gripping tale set in the Antebellum South when slavery was rampant. The story follows the atrocities committed by a ruthless plantation owner named John Weatherford and the cruel treatment inflicted upon a young slave girl, Giselle Morcheaux. As the story unfolds, we see Weatherford's true nature exposed, including his extramarital affairs and his despicable treatment of those under his control. What's particularly striking is how his wife reacts to the revelation of his infidelity; rather than being outraged at his mistreatment of Giselle, she's more upset that he's seeking out a girl of the slave class. This powerful story sheds light on the horrors of slavery and the corruption and cruelty that too often go unchecked in positions of power.
In Cursed Plantation, D.E. Grant skillfully blends supernatural elements with the harsh realities of slavery and its cruelty. The author's ability to create a haunting atmosphere, such as John Weatherford's experiences of hearing voices and oozing pus from his skin, adds a unique touch to the novel. However, this is not just a tale of supernatural horror, as the book delves into the atrocities of slavery, including the sadistic cruelty inflicted upon slave girl Giselle Morcheaux. It's important to note that the book can be triggering and emotionally jarring, particularly for readers of color.
The author's unflinching portrayal of historical slavery is a reminder that we must confront our history, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. In the face of those who want to ban classes that discuss critical race theory, the book is a powerful reminder of the violent and traumatic foundations upon which this country was built. But despite its heavy subject matter, the book is a testament to Grant's storytelling ability, as he seamlessly weaves reality into a work of fiction. So, before you pick up this book, be prepared to face some harsh truths and delve into the world that Grant has created. It is well worth the read.
In Cursed Plantation, D.E. Grant skillfully blends supernatural elements with the harsh realities of slavery and its cruelty. The author's ability to create a haunting atmosphere, such as John Weatherford's experiences of hearing voices and oozing pus from his skin, adds a unique touch to the novel. However, this is not just a tale of supernatural horror, as the book delves into the atrocities of slavery, including the sadistic cruelty inflicted upon slave girl Giselle Morcheaux. It's important to note that the book can be triggering and emotionally jarring, particularly for readers of color.
The author's unflinching portrayal of historical slavery is a reminder that we must confront our history, no matter how uncomfortable it may be. In the face of those who want to ban classes that discuss critical race theory, the book is a powerful reminder of the violent and traumatic foundations upon which this country was built. But despite its heavy subject matter, the book is a testament to Grant's storytelling ability, as he seamlessly weaves reality into a work of fiction. So, before you pick up this book, be prepared to face some harsh truths and delve into the world that Grant has created. It is well worth the read.