Blog Tour Archives

July 18, 2020July 18, 2020

Books On Tour (Review): The Silent Dolls by Rita Herron

There’s a new detective in town, and Ellie Reeves is a force to be reckoned with as she navigates a missing child case that brings up dark memories.

I liked how the author jumped right into the story and didn’t waste a lot of time with slogging setups. Those are great, but sometimes in a new series, they can cause the real plot to be delayed until a bit later in the story. That’s not so in this case.

Something happened to Ellie when she was a child, and her parents think it could still affect her. This is a problem because her dad is the Sheriff, and she wants to replace him when he retires. But will he choose her? We find out the answer to that very early in the book, and her father’s decision has direct bearing on the case as it is investigated.

Not all of the characters are open books with clear agendas. Ranger Cord McClain has secrets, and his demeanor comes across as equal parts knowledge and strength balanced with mystery. What does Eula Ann know (or not know), and how is she connected to the missing girls? Is special Agent Derrick Fox guided by his personal tragedies? Or does he have information that could blow the case wide open and expose long-held beliefs in the process? And just who is the Watcher?

(A quick side note about Special Agent Fox. He reminded me a lot of Fox Mulder from “The X-Files.” Driven by an almost identical past event, FBI agent, similar name…it’s all there. If you’re familiar with the show, you’ll know exactly what I mean as you read the book)

These questions unravel against the backdrop of a little girl who has gone missing along the Appalachian Trail. There’s a big winter storm barreling down, so time is of the essence. Ellie and the above- mentioned characters all have their parts to play.

I did like that it was set in the U.S., where locations were actually familiar. Don’t get me wrong, I love my UK Detective Inspectors, but it was a nice change to have terminology and locations that were actually familiar. I think it did make a difference in how I could picture the action.

I know that I haven’t said much about the plot, but I always err on the side of caution when it comes to mystery thrillers like this one. A simple mention of a plot point could give away a more significant thread, and we know how much I hate that. I may have actually done it already…or did I?

You’ll have to read for yourself. I have a feeling that this is going to be an excellent series, so get in on the ground floor and read the first book now. I already can’t wait for the next one.

Author Bio:
USA Today Bestselling and award-winning author Rita Herron fell in love with books at the ripe age of eight when she read her first Trixie Belden mystery. But she didn’t think real people grew up to be writers, so she became a teacher instead. Now she writes so she doesn’t have to get a real job.

With over ninety books to her credit, she’s penned romantic suspense, romantic comedy, and YA novels, but she especially likes writing dark romantic suspense and crime fiction set in small southern towns.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorritaherron/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ritaherron
Website: www.ritaherron.com

July 15, 2020July 14, 2020

Books On Tour (Review): Summer at Orchard House by Ellyn Oaksmith

Technically a romance, this story of three sisters trying to save their dad’s vineyard is also a testament to the importance of keeping the American Dream alive. It’s the perfect story for the times.

Right off the bat, I could tell that the author had a vast knowledge of the inner-working of vineyards, a thought that was confirmed the further I read. Whether it was from experience or copious amounts of research, it showed in the details. It also made the vineyard almost a character itself, instead of just a pretty setting for a story.

I think this was important because the vineyard is central to the plot, and it being more than an inanimate object was added depth to the importance of the plot of land. It became symbolic of everything the family had in life.

That was my favorite part of the whole plotline. From the first phone call that Carmen receives from her sister through the stories that unfold, the reason why the vineyard must be saved is clear. It’s their lifeblood, their representation of their family, and their part of the American Dream. Everything that America is to millions of people.

Amazon: https://bit.ly/2VGNo4H Apple: https://apple.co/2yH9JX8
Kobo: https://bit.ly/34fmiVl Google: https://bit.ly/2YTrT2v

I loved how Mr. Alvarez imbued that in his daughters, even if they didn’t exactly realize that at the time. I could relate to the feelings that Carmen had when she realized that she should have paid more attention to her father when she was younger. She regrets not learning from him more, and with his condition, it’s harder to do in the present time. That hit home for me.

I also liked how the author was fair to Evan, giving him depth as well. His character could have been the rich, annoying neighbor stereotype, and there were times that that kind of attitude appeared. However, I thought the author did him a great service in making him human and vulnerable. His first introduction where he felt lonely after meeting with Mr. Alvarez stuck with me through the whole book.

I really enjoyed the journey of all of the characters throughout the story. I would highly recommend this book for many reasons, but mainly for the attention to the heart of the story: the importance of maintaining and keeping sight of dreams.

Author Bio
Ellyn Oaksmith is a USA Today and Kindle bestselling author. After graduating from The American Film Institute, Ellyn was a screenwriter in Hollywood, pitching movies, rewriting scripts and navigating the Los Angeles freeways before Google Maps. Meeting movie stars was a fun and surreal perk.

Ellyn’s first book was published by Avon/Harper Collins. Other contemporary romances with smart, ambitious heroines followed.
Ellyn lives in Seattle, Washington with her husband and their polydactyl cat, Forest. Ellyn is an avid competitive rower.

Website: http://ellynoaksmith.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EllynOaksmith
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellynoaksmith/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ellynoaksmith

July 14, 2020July 12, 2020

Books On Tour (Review): Her Shallow Grave by DK Hood

This is fast becoming one of my favorite series. I came in late at Her Broken Wings (#8), but have been trying to catch up since then. I’ve seen the progression. The writing is crisp, the characters are realistic and likable, and the villains are always super-creepy. This installment is no exception.

I really like how the author doesn’t beat around the bush. The action starts right away so there’s no guessing about where it’s headed and this one really takes the cake. The Sculptor is definitely one of the most chill-inducing and prolific baddies I have “met” in a book.

The camaraderie between Kane and Alton has grown over the series. They’ve been working together long enough that they’re a well-oiled machine. But that doesn’t mean they’ve become complacent. There’s a scene early on that illustrates just how “on top” of things they still are, especially Kane. The man is a beast.

The author also pays attention to secondary characters, giving them their own times to shine. FBI Agent Jo Wells and Bobby Kalo have their own parts to do. I especially like Bobby’s story.

Amazon: https://geni.us/B087378QTGSocial Apple: https://apple.co/2V88Oru
Kobo: https://bit.ly/2xyBosS Google: https://bit.ly/2wEG93K

Actually, the more I think about it, the more I realize these books read more like a popular tv show. The characters all have their strengths and together they make a team. The plots are self-contained, but have the through-plot lines that continue from book to book. I dig that.

I’m trying to avoid the plot, because I really think books like this need to be experienced, and I don’t want to be the one to spoil someone’s experience. I mentioned The Sculptor; he is as nuanced as the regular characters, and I appreciate the attention to detail. I also like that one of the victims did not act like a typical victim. I was rooting for her. And that’s all I am going to say about that.

This is one of the few series that I think you really can read as stand-alones, but I do think you miss the background of the team. So jump in now.

Author Bio:

I’ve always had a wicked sense of humour and was the kid who told the ghost stories around the campfire. I am lucky to have family all over the world and have spent many vacations in places from Paris France to Montana USA and Australia. I use the wonderful memories from these visits to enhance my stories.

My interest in the development of forensic science to solve crime goes back many years. I enjoy writing crime, mystery and thrillers. With many stories, waiting for me to write I’ll look forward to sharing many spine-tingling stories with you.

D.K. Hood is an active member of International Thriller Writers

**Website:** www.dkhood.com
**Facebook:** https://www.facebook.com/dkhoodauthor/
**Twitter:** https://twitter.com/DKHood_Author

July 12, 2020July 12, 2020

Blog Tour (Review): The Last Wife by Karen Hamilton

I want to start this review with a disclaimer. I read this book when a LOT was going on around me. Some significant changes were occurring, and my time was split, so I was not able to dedicate extended periods of reading time to this book. I had to read it when I could catch a few minutes here and there. I think that had a significant bearing on why I struggled with this book.

I was intrigued by the set-up. Marie looks after her best friend Nina’s family in honor of Nina’s last wishes. But there’s more to it because Marie has always been jealous of Nina’s life. Is she altruistic, or does she have ulterior motives?

What she doesn’t know, but quickly finds out, is that Nina may have had ulterior motives of her own. She certainly kept a lot of secrets from Marie. As Marie uncovers hidden truths, little by little, her plan for the perfect life starts to fall apart.

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As I said, it’s a great premise. My problem was continuity. Again, it could be due to the timing and how I had to read the book. But I felt like it was disjointed, and things did not flow smoothly.

I also never got a good grasp on Marie. Frankly, I didn’t like her. I thought she was manipulative and an opportunist. Perhaps that was the point, to have an unlikeable main character, but as everything was from her perspective, it made it difficult to get behind her. I found myself rooting for other characters to realize her duplicity.

There were some twists and curves, and the book did pick up after a while. It turns out that everyone Marie comes in contact with has secrets of their own. Ultimately everything is out in the open, and (no spoiler) Marie gets the ending she pretty much deserves.

I wish that I had been able to devote more attention to the book because I think I would have appreciated it a lot more. As it was, it was just okay. But give it a try if you have the time to devote to reading it. You may have a completely different experience.

Author Bio:

**Social Links:** Author Website Twitter: @KJHAuthor Instagram: @karenhamiltonauthor
Facebook: @KarenHamiltonWriter Goodreads

Karen Hamilton spent her childhood in Angola, Zimbabwe, Belgium and Italy and worked as a flight attendant for many years. Karen is a recent graduate of the Faber Academy and, having now put down roots in Hampshire to raise her young family with her husband, she satisfies her wanderlust by exploring the world through her writing. She is also the author of the international bestseller The Perfect Girlfriend.

Thanks for stopping by my stop on the Harlequin Trade Publishing 2020 Mystery & Thriller Summer Blog Tour. Be sure to check back over the next couple of months for more reviews!

July 10, 2020July 10, 2020

Books On Tour (Review): Death at the Dance by Verity Bright

Right from the start, I felt like I was reading a movie.

Let me explain.

I’m a big fan of the screwball comedies of the early talkies. “It Happened One Night” with Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert is one of my favorites.

As soon as I started reading this book, I felt like I was dropped right into the middle of one of those. From the character and clothing descriptions to the dialogue, it all was true to the time. In a strange way, there were also times that I was reminded of Downton Abbey (another favorite).

Honestly, this book had everything that makes a cozy mystery so much fun. The colorful characters, the rich detail, and (of course) the murder and ensuing investigation all made for a delightfully light and breezy read.

I liked Lady Eleanor as the sleuth because she was feisty but shrewd at times. I also really enjoyed Clifford. He was a butler, but so much more. In some ways, it felt like he was the Watson to Eleanor’s Sherlock. I’m not going to give away the plot of the mystery, but it’s a good (and fitting) one.

I mentioned detail, and I think this where the author really succeeded. From the descriptions of the fabrics and settings to the names of the characters, there was no part of the book that didn’t fit perfectly in the time period.

I think that’s what I liked most. The world created by the author enabled me to escape and enjoy a mystery romp in the 20s.

In times like these, that kind of talent is invaluable. I can’t wait to visit with Lady Eleanor on her next venture.

Author Bio:
Verity Bright is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing partnership that has spanned a quarter of a century. Starting out writing high-end travel articles and books, they published everything from self-improvement to humour, before embarking on their first historical mystery. They are the authors of the fabulous Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series, set in the 1920s.

July 9, 2020July 8, 2020

Books On Tour (Review): The Ringmaster’s Daughter by Carly Schabowski

I started this book expecting one thing and I was pleasantly surprised with what I took away from it.

A lot of historical fiction set in World War II is set in the midst of the war. This book was unique because it starts before the Germans invade and occupy Paris. Right there I knew I was in for something different. The opening scenes of Michel trying to leave Paris were harrowing, and perfectly captured the panic and urgency of the situation.

I found Michel to be a complicated lead character. On the one hand, he seemed like a drifter and someone who had no particular attributes that made a reader want to root for him. I couldn’t quite get a grasp on who he really was. I think perhaps that was purposeful because it allowed him to fit in with the group he ended up with ultimately.

That group is the reason this book is good. The main thrust of the plot is the woebegone circus trying to find places to perform in the face of impending war. The juxtaposition of the horrors of war and the magic of a circus is clever and made the emotions around each much stronger. For each bit of news or encounter with the Nazis, I wanted the joy of the circus to hang on a little bit longer.

Amazon: https://bit.ly/3eMifEf Apple: https://apple.co/34mzW9h
Kobo: https://bit.ly/2RmjnoF Google: https://bit.ly/38oTs77

Not that the circus doesn’t have its problems, but it’s up to the reader to find out what those are (I am definitely not going to give away plot points here). I will say that I suspected a major one and was not surprised by it. But I loved reading about the backgrounds of the various circus performers and felt that they really came alive from the pages.

I did think that there was a big but slow build up, as most of the book covers just over a year or so. But then the last 10% of the book covers years and we get the wrap-up of all of the characters briefly and almost as an afterthought, not to mention the end of Michel’s story is very abrupt. I felt like there had been so much invested in these characters’ stories that they deserved a better ending.

My only other complaint is that the title gives away a major plot point (well, two, kind of). I couldn’t get behind Michel’s worries as he joined the circus because of the title. That was a shame, because his concern did add to the tension of the plot. But it ultimately meant nothing to me because I knew the truth.

It was magically lyrical at times and was a nice departure from the usual historical fiction settings. I would recommend this book.

Author Bio
Carly Schabowski worked as a journalist in both North Cyprus and Australia before returning to Oxford, where she studied for an MA and then a PhD in creative writing at Oxford Brookes University. Carly now teaches at Oxford Brookes University as an associate lecturer in Creative Writing for first and second-year English literature students.

July 9, 2020July 8, 2020

Books On Tour (Review): Somebody’s Daughter by Carol Wyer

With every new book that comes out in this series, I always wonder how the author is going to top the last one. After the events of the past two, I couldn’t imagine what Natalie would have to face next.

I should really learn NOT to worry about these things. As always, Ms. Wyer has things deftly in hand.

What she has done with this book is not only very smart, but it is effective. With the shocking events of The Blossom Twins and The Secret Admirer, one could see Natalie coming very close to the edge of falling apart (naturally so). Ms. Wyer gives everyone the chance to take a breath and reset as Somebody’s Daughter takes place a year after The Secret Admirer.

It works well because it gives the characters a chance to have advanced in their personal and professional lives. It’s a fantastic way to reboot but keep the same characters on their trajectories. I’m not going to spoil who is in what position or exactly how things have changed. You’ll have to read for yourself!

Natalie and her team have quite the investigation this time. I particularly liked how it started as one thing, but then there was an unexpected event that sent the investigation in a different direction. After a few more twists and turns, it wrapped up quite neatly.

Again, contrary to the past couple of books, the investigation seemed more realistic. I think that was because Natalie was not personally involved. Don’t get me wrong; they’re always good, and the author certainly does her homework. Her forensics and techniques are spot on. But having it NOT be personal to Natalie actually gives the police work a chance to shine. The author conveys the difficulty of an investigation, so it’s nice to see it center stage.

I also like how this book seemed to have a “cinematic” feel to it. The cutaways and interspersed chapters from multiple points of view flowed smoothly. The transitions are never jarring, but this time I could picture the action like I was watching it on television. I love that the world Ms. Wyer creates feels this way.

There is also a message to be learned that is woven into the investigation. This time, the author offers a subtle but searing commentary on the homeless. It’s useful both within the investigation and as a real-life reminder.

Even as the characters are in a “fresh start” position, Ms. Wyer lays the groundwork for where possible conflicts may arise. What does David want to tell Natalie that has to be mentioned in person? There’s obviously more to that story. What does Frances really want? Will Lucy go down the same path as Natalie, putting the job before family? Will Natalie finally back off and enjoy her second chance?

I devoured this book in one sitting (thank goodness for lazy Saturdays and understanding family members). Natalie is back and better than ever, and I can’t wait to see where the future leads her.

Author Bio
Winner of The People’s Book Prize Award, Carol Wyer is a best-selling author and stand up comedian who writes feel-good comedies and gripping crime fiction.

A move to the ‘dark side’ in 2017, saw the introduction of popular DI Robyn Carter in LITTLE GIRL LOST, the #2 best-selling book on Amazon, #9 best-selling audiobook on Audible and Top 150 USA Today best-seller.

A second series featuring DI Natalie Ward quickly followed and to date her novels have sold over 750,000 copies and been translated for various overseas markets, including into Norwegian, Italian, Turkish, Hungarian Slovak, Czech and Polish.

Carol has been interviewed on numerous radio shows discussing ”Irritable Male Syndrome’ and ‘Ageing Disgracefully’ and on BBC Breakfast television. She has had articles published in national magazines ‘Woman’s Weekly’ featured in ‘Take A Break’, ‘Choice’, ‘Yours’ and ‘Woman’s Own’ magazines and the Huffington Post.

She currently lives on a windy hill in rural Staffordshire with her husband Mr Grumpy… who is very, very grumpy.

To learn more about Carol, go to www.carolwyer.co.uk or follow Carol on Twitter: @carolewyer.
Carol also blogs at www.carolwyer.com

June 28, 2020July 4, 2020

Blog Tour (Review): She’s Faking It by Kristin Rockaway

Full disclosure: I could not completely relate to any characters in this book. But I still really enjoyed the story. It created an interesting and unique dichotomy for me. Let’s start with what I liked.

I could totally get behind the “hitting rock bottom to rebuild” setting that propels Bree. I found her tribulations to be amusing as she navigated reinventing herself and trying to be a better person. I did also like how she learned more about herself and others around her during her journey.

I also did feel for her at times, and understood her reluctance to part with sentimental items, especially those that reminded her of her mother. In today’s world where everything needs to be picture-perfect, old things are often shunted aside for shiny, new things…and I think that’s just wrong. This is where Bree was conflicted, and where I understood her the best. Deep down she knew what was right, she just didn’t know how to access it and got distracted

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I appreciated Trey. Of any of the characters, I think I could probably identify with him most, especially his attitude toward commercialism and social media. I could get behind someone who just wanted to be able to live without having to have every second documented. At times, this caused interesting tension between him and Bree.

And the social media aspect is where I just couldn’t relate. The whole influencer/non-influencer/collaborator thing is so shallow to me. I find the whole thing (in real life) to be just phony. The emphasis on followers (regardless of whether they’re real or not) and buying them to “boost” yourself seems ridiculous.

Given that, however, I think the author captures the whole movement perfectly from start to finish. Bree’s journey ultimately shows her the importance of real-life connections and experiences, and how dangerous living in the virtual social media world can be.

And perhaps that’s the point – it’s time to refocus on real people, not virtual, fake images.

AUTHOR BIO:

Facebook: /KristinRockaway Twitter: @KristinRockaway Instagram: @KristinRockway

Kristin Rockaway is a native New Yorker with an insatiable case of wanderlust. After working in the IT industry for far too many years, she traded the city for the surf and chased her dreams out to Southern California, where she spends her days happily writing stories instead of software. When she’s not writing, she enjoys spending time with her husband and son, and planning her next big vacation.

Thanks for stopping by my stop on the HTP 2020 Summer Reads Blog Tour for Women’s Fiction & Romance. Be sure to check back throughout the summer for more reviews!

June 27, 2020July 2, 2020

Blog Tour (Review): The Black Swan of Paris

I’ll be honest: this book had me at the theater. I always like finding unique settings in historical fiction novels, and this one certainly qualifies.

I loved how the author set everything up. The connections between characters were tenuous and not easily discernable, adding a bit of mystery. The backstory unfolds slowly, which adds to the tension that is already felt through the setting.

I think that there must have been copious amounts of research because the author captured the essence of theater. Having been in theater myself, I could picture the costumes and stage area, and I could practically smell the aroma that all backstage areas seem to share. Sweat, makeup, perfume, and grease (among others) all combine into a scent that is uniquely “theater.”

BUY LINKS

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Not only was the general theatrical atmosphere accurate, but the author also managed to balance the ominous presence of the Nazis against the magic of the theater. It was an interesting juxtaposition that gave those scenes depth.

As to the plot itself, has everything a good read should have. There’s intrigue, espionage, romance, and…oh yeah, don’t forget the Nazis. A stunning singer with a hidden past and her dashing manager (who is not what he seems) are the stars, but the secondary characters have just as much depth. And everyone has secrets.

I did think that the plot sagged a bit after the initial introductions and set-up. There were still important points, but the drive forward slowed. Fortunately, it sped up quickly, and the last third of the book was nonstop action. I’m not going to spoil the plot, but let’s just say that it was all very movie-worthy.

Ultimately, I really enjoyed this book and appreciated the author’s attention to detail. She really created theatrical Paris in the last stages of the Nazi occupation, and made me care what happened to the characters.

AUTHOR BIO

Karen Robards is the New York Times, USA TODAY and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than fifty novels and one novella. She is the winner of six Silver Pen awards and numerous other awards.

Author Website: http://karenrobards.com/
TWITTER: @TheKarenRobards
FB: @AuthorKarenRobards

Thanks for stopping by for the second entry in the HTP 2020 Summer Reads Blog Tour for Historical Fiction. Check back in later this month for The Woman Before Wallis.

June 25, 2020June 25, 2020

Books On Tour (Review): I Know You Lied by Lesley Sanderson

I had really high hopes for this book and the author did a great job of keeping my focus for nearly the entire story. However, the end became a little shaky (not enough to ruin it thought. Read on).

I loved the set up for this book. From the beginning with the mysterious letters and Nell’s decision to investigate her family history, I was drawn in. I wanted to know more about her past, just as she did.

How much did her grandmother influence…well, everything. Does Adam, have an ulterior motive or is he just in the wrong place at the wrong time? And how much influence does Joyce really have?

The author had me guessing throughout nearly the entire book, and I especially liked the touches of gaslighting that occurred throughout the plot. Disrupted backpacks, unlocked and suddenly locked doors, and fences…who is responsible? Who is an ally and who has ulterior motive? There were a few characters I wasn’t sure about the entire time, and I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop. This is where the author really excelled.

Amazon: https://geni.us/B086C6BF22Social Apple: https://apple.co/2JgedGb
Kobo: https://bit.ly/3aj5IWE Google: https://bit.ly/2WLwS4w

I also liked the flashback chapters that gave the reader the backstory on Sarah and her interactions with her husband’s family. These were poignant and informative and gave depth to both her story and (by relation) Nell’s story.

All of that being said, I loved the story right up until just over three-quarters of the way through. At that point, I felt like the author was trying to tie everything up and that there were some leaps of logic. I also felt that the ending was incomplete; sort of like there was a big build up and then the reveal did not live up to that.

I was left with a few questions, even after the book was finished. With that said, however, I still really enjoyed the story. I appreciated Nell’s journey to find her real family history. I would recommend it for that reason alone.

Author Bio:

Lesley attended the Curtis Brown Creative 6 month novel writing course in 2015/6, and in 2017 The Orchid Girls (then On The Edge) was shortlisted for the Lucy Cavendish fiction prize.

Lesley is the author of psychological thrillers and spends her days writing in coffee shops in Kings Cross where she lives and works as a librarian. She loves the atmosphere and eclectic mix of people in the area. Lesley discovered Patricia Highsmith as a teenager and has been hooked on psychological thrillers ever since.