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In Time of Need
In Time of Need by Alan Zacher artfully weaves together elements of mystery and coming-of-age into the unique narrative about its charismatic protagonist, the 68-year-old Madeline. Surprising, even her husband, Madeline, embarks on an unexpected journey to fulfill her dream of becoming a private detective. Though her initial attempts are met with difficulty, a tragic event catapults her into her first real case.
When a close friend, Ruby, loses her daughter Laura in a devastating fire, she adamantly disputes the official verdict of accidental death. However, the preceding events cast a shadow of suspicion, prompting Ruby to enlist Madeline’s detective prowess. The investigation unravels a labyrinth of secrets, challenging everything Madeline thought she knew.
Author Alan Zacher excels in portraying rich and multifaceted characters, enabling the readers to establish an emotional connection, thus rendering them more than just two-dimensional figures in a novel. As we delve deeper into the intricate plot, we can’t help but ponder whether the unveiled truths will pave the way for justice.
Amidst this engrossing drama, the book also tenderly navigates the relationship between Madeline and her steadfast, though unassuming, husband, Peter. Their journey is so charming that readers will find themselves silently cheering for their happiness.
In Time of Need is a compelling read; I feel a potential area for refinement lies in one of the climactic scenes. Here, Madeline finds herself in jeopardy as she anticipates the arrival of a police officer. Unfortunately, his delay, albeit explained, appears implausible given his prior knowledge of Madeline’s predicament, creating a gap in an otherwise seamlessly woven plot.
In Time of Need is an engaging and suspenseful mystery with an enigmatic amateur sleuth. Zacher’s crafting of a well-structured narrative with interesting characters makes this novel a worthwhile read. The profound characterization, along with an intriguing plot, indeed offers an enthralling literary experience.
Pages: 157 | ASIN : B08N57L6F2
The 13th Hour, Again
Private investigator James Hurts, who prides himself on not being bested by any other man, is happy when his former partner Tom Taylor decides to work with him again. Tom’s mother, Amanda, and the vampire Mr. Williams are a happy family, except Hurts does not like Mr. Williams much. Together, after dealing with leprechauns who love nothing more than gold and repairing shoes, they embark on the adventure of saving The Chosen One from vampire children who want to increase their power after sacrificing her on her birthday, Halloween. However, it is the start of coming events that involve vampires, leprechauns, and Satan himself. Can they stop Satan from impregnating a child, or is he too powerful for them?
The 13th Hour, Again, by Alan Zacher is a chilling story that combines mystery, suspense, occult fantasy, and an eerie plot. The author’s writing is smooth, and the dark suspense kept me on edge. From the intelligent and headstrong Amanda to the lonely but goodhearted Hurts, the characters are well-written. Zacher provided great detail so that I was able to clearly imagine what was going on. I thoroughly enjoyed the character of Mr. Williams and would have loved for him to have a bigger presence in the book.
Zacher takes readers on a roller coaster ride with the battles and fights. Just when you think there is no hope, something will happen that changes the course of things in the blink of an eye. These characters are survivors and will not go down without a fight.
The 13th Hour, Again, is a gripping fantasy horror novel that young adults and adults interested in mystery and detective genres would find interesting. The writing style, character development, and the air of mystery maintained throughout the book will keep readers hooked.
Pages: 191 | ASIN : B088JNVKBY
LITERARY TITAN 