nebulous07's reviews
297 reviews

Your Turn to Die by Mark Love

5.0

Mark Love's "Your Turn to Die" is the second book of the Jefferson Chene mystery series, and it doesn't disappoint. Squad Six is back with two new faces (Ramon Suarez and Donna Spears) and are tasked to solve the gruesome murder of Kyle Morrissey, a successful businessman. The transition of Suarez to adapt and adjust to his new team is very realistic, and the leadership skills of both Pappy Cantrell and Jefferson Chene are memorable. The pacing of this book keeps you engaged as multiple sub-plots occur, mainly the romance between Chene and Simone along with the introduction of two retired gangsters. The chemistry and scenes between Chene and Simone are sizzling, full of banter and endearing. Unlike the first book, this book is less action-packed, but the intellectual puzzle pieces were a delight to read. I cannot wait to learn more about Chene and highly recommend the series.

I received a copy of this book from the author, and this review is left voluntarily.

The Sisters by J.S. Ellis

5.0

“The Sisters” by JS Ellis is a short story that is fast-paced and thrilling. Narrated solely by Evie, one is drawn to her world along with her sister Jenny who are poles apart in terms of personality, style and looks. The engaging plot slowly unfolds with twists that are expected but turns which catch you off guard, and one is left with a very surprising ending. A 5 star read!

A thank you to VoraciousReadersOnly for giving me a free review copy of this book.

The Career Killer by Ali Gunn

5.0

"Life is too short to spend it dwelling on what's fair instead of what is. You need to grieve for the woman you think you ought to be and accept the woman you are because the woman you are is spectacular..."
Ali Gunn's "The Career Killer" is a refreshing, fast-paced and gripping British crime novel. I was drawn to the unconventionality of this book as it involves newly promoted DCI Elsie Mabey and her inexperienced ragtag team who land the case of "The Lady Killer". The transitions between chapters really gives the reader an opportunity to get to know every character - DI Seb Stryker, DS Georgia Matthews, DS Patricia Knox (sassy, fiery and brutally honest), Annie Burke, Dr Valerie Spilsbury and Uncle Berty (the best supporting character full of wisdom). DCI Mabey is a memorable and relatable character who is not only tasked with the case but is also battling her own doubts as a newly promoted DCI, health issues and trying to add memories to her non-existent personal life. Her growth in terms of leadership and determination when the case strikes too close to home is a celebration of her inner strength. The case is full of twists and turns and I was engaged and immersed every time I picked up the book. A thrilling 5 star read and I cannot wait for the next case in 2020.

A thank you to VoraciousReadersOnly for giving me a free review copy of the book via the author.

Seneca Lake by Emily Heebner

4.0

Emily Heebner's "Seneca Lake" is a well-written, simple and earnest historical fiction book. Set in 1944 rural Finger Lakes, this book unfolds through the narrative of Meg, a high school senior . One would assume that the olden days were simpler times but when human emotions are involved, it is not so simple. Her character growth is remarkable as she reflects on her own family dynamic, her feelings for Arthur, a Seneca Indian farm worker and observes how society at the time treated him. This makes her question the element of prejudice and judgement that plagued society. I really appreciate Meg having such strong aspirations of pursuing her education at Cornell University and the book slowly evolves to reach the point of her decision whether to leave the familiar surrounding of Valois or venture into the unknown. It is a gratifying read with a strong message of believing in yourself and sticking to your own convictions even if it means going against the flow. I found the ending very symbolic though I did not see it coming. A 4.5 star educational and heart-felt read.
A thank you to VoraciousReadersOnly for giving me a free review copy via the author.

The Loop by Nicholas Holloway

5.0

Nicholas Holloway’s “The Loop” reels you in with a web of deceit, secrets, desires and vengeance. Set in the background of the beautiful landscape of the Sierra Nevada mountains, this thriller is mainly narrated through Gallagher Finch who is tormented by his inner demons. The Finch family history is embroiled with pain and secrets, and the Finch siblings have their burdens to carry. The engaging central plot is unravelled through multiple sub-plots are linked intricately. The writing style of the author makes one forget about the existence of time. The sequence of the puzzle pieces of this mystery is very well placed, and when they come together, the reader is confronted with unexpected twists and turns along with a shocking ending. A 5 star read.

I received a review copy from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Hometown Boys by Mary Maddox

5.0

"Hometown Boys" is the second book of the Kelly Durrell series and is the true definition of a thriller book. The prologue starts with a bang, and Mary Maddox has artfully added intricate layers to an intense plot that is surrounded with secrets relating to both, the town of Morrison, Illinois and that of her family. The level of suspense increases with every page, and you are compelled to find out more. By the end of the book, you don't only get into the headspace of Kelly who is a strong, driven and complex protagonist but also have a clear understanding of key characters such as Jack and Pam Durell, Lizzy D’Angelo, Troy Ingram and Stephanie Born to mention a few. This book has an element of darkness, and some scenes are graphic and not for the faint-hearted. The ending left me with feelings of relief, shock and surprise. I cannot wait to read more of this series.

I received this book from the author, and this honest review is left voluntarily.

Not His To Take by J.S. Ellis

3.0

"Not His To Take" by J.S Ellis has a very interesting layered plot that involves a poker player, a dance and a gangster. The narrative of this story is presented through the lens of this trio and I really enjoyed the childhood connection shared between Acey and Elena. There are some really good twists and turns to keep you engaged and it is a fast-paced book. However, I felt that the ending was slightly rushed and Elena's moment of strength was very brief. This book is still a good read I am looking forward to reading more of J.S Ellis.

A thank you to BookSirens for allowing me to be a part of the review team for this book. This review has been left voluntarily.

Tangled In The Web by Jeff Stanger

3.0

"Tangled in the Web" by Jeff Stanger will appeal to art, memorabilia and ardent baseball fans. This book is a mix of mystery and humour and is narrated through Quick who is full of wit and charm, and I was drawn to him right from the start. The writing ability of Jeff to introduce significant events or concepts of Baseball throughout the story was well done. The supporting characters such as Simone, Emily Tarantola, Donnie Duluth, Zeus and Victor Simmons to mention a few were memorable, and their characteristics flowed well with the story. This book certainly gave me Carl Hiassen vibes, and it can be read as a standalone. Overall, it is a good read.

A thank you to BookSirens for allowing me to be a part of the review team, and this review is left voluntarily.

Lift Off! by Vivian Zems

5.0

Vivian Zems "Life Off!" is a collection of short inspiring poems that shed light on the journey of life. Vivian conveys profound messages through her poetic words. Life Lessons, Broken, Shackles and Dreams, Light Chasing Darkness, The Meaning, Awake and Finding Purpose are some of my personal favourites. The book addresses what it means to be living along with the upheavals of life, and the celebration and uniqueness of the human spirit. I know that this will not be the last time that I read this book for it will be my companion during the trying times in life.

A thank you to VoraciousReadersOnly for giving me a free review copy of this book via the author.

The Consequence of Loyalty by Trey Stone

5.0

Trey Stone's "The Consequence of Loyalty" is a well-paced thriller and reels you in right from page one. Teamwork and professional relationships are severely tested when the boss of the FBI's Critical Response Unit has been shot, by one of its members. The strong partnership and banter between the two FBI characters Jordan Greer and Dana Martin are memorable, and Gerard Martin is a very layered and complex character. The element of suspense lingers as the plot unfolds, and the ending caught me off guard. This book is full of twists and turns along with being action-packed. I enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more of Trey's work.

A thank you to VoraciousReadersOnly for giving me a free review copy of this book.