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Eyes Shout Secrets: Subterfuge Can Have A Soul – Book 1 (A Trust Mystery Suspense Thriller)
C. L. Hyde’s debut novel, Eyes Shout Secrets: Subterfuge Can Have a Soul, masterfully blends mystery, human emotion, and moral complexity into a compelling thriller. Set in an enigmatic world that defies the characters’ perceptions, this narrative is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally charged. The story centers on Bram de Jong, a devoted family man who has built a cherished life in London with his wife, Xoese, and their joyful children. Their idyllic existence is shattered when Rachael, a mysterious woman, delivers a chilling ultimatum: Bram must abandon his family or face an unimaginable nightmare that threatens to destroy them. Refusing to yield to this unfathomable demand, Bram’s defiance sets off a chain of perilous events, unraveling his reality and thrusting him into a world of menacing forces.
C.L. Hyde’s skillful storytelling captures the essence of Bram’s struggle to protect his loved ones and the life they have built, infusing the narrative with a palpable sense of urgency and tension. Hyde’s writing is characterized by its lyrical quality and vivid imagery, bringing both the setting and characters to vibrant life. His creative turns of phrase, such as “Extremely unusual in recruitment, where outlasting a mushroom on a spring day was worthy of a field medal,” add a unique flair to the prose.
As the inaugural book in the Trust Mystery Thriller series, Eyes Shout Secrets: Subterfuge Can Have a Soul promises a strong following eagerly anticipating the next installment. Hyde’s ability to explore the psychological intricacies of Bram’s moral dilemmas lends a profound realism to the story, while the intricate plot twists ensure a gripping, page-turning experience. Hyde has gifted readers with a thought-provoking and engaging thriller that challenges the boundaries of loyalty, morality, and reality.
C. L. Hyde’s Eyes Shout Secrets: Subterfuge Can Have a Soul is a remarkable entry into the mystery thriller genre, offering a sophisticated blend of intrigue, emotional depth, and moral complexity. This promising start to the Trust Mystery Thriller series leaves readers eager for more, solidifying Hyde’s place as a noteworthy new voice in the genre. This book is a must-read for those who appreciate a thriller that not only entertains but also challenges the mind and touches the heart.
Pages: 486 | ASIN : B0B9CCHHZF
Sunrise Over Casablanca
Sunrise Over Casablanca by Pablo Zaragoza is a captivating sequel to “Brazzaville,” continuing the enthralling saga set in the aftermath of World War II. The story follows Rick, a resilient and resourceful character, navigating the complex political landscape of post-war Casablanca. As Rick attempts to rebuild his life and protect his family amidst the turmoil of Moroccan independence, the novel weaves a rich tapestry of historical events, personal struggles, and enduring love.
Zaragoza’s writing is both vivid and engaging, transporting readers to the bustling streets and intimate cafes of Casablanca. One of the standout aspects of the book is its detailed and immersive setting. The descriptions of the shanty towns, the Blue Parrot Cafe, and the intricate political machinations create a palpable sense of place that draws you into the world of the characters. For instance, the portrayal of Carrières Central, with its rundown wooden huts and open sewers, starkly highlights the harsh realities faced by the urban poor.
The characters are well-developed and multifaceted, particularly Rick and Ilsa. Their relationship, tested by the pressures of war and political upheaval, forms the emotional core of the novel. Rick’s internal conflict and unwavering dedication to his family are portrayed with depth and nuance. While the historical context adds a rich layer to the narrative, there are moments when the political intrigue can feel overwhelming. The numerous references to real historical events and figures, such as the involvement of French and American intelligence, add a layer of depth that history enthusiasts will particularly appreciate, enriching the plot with authentic historical context.
Sunrise Over Casablanca is a compelling read that blends historical fiction with personal drama. Zaragoza’s meticulous research and evocative prose make this a standout novel for those interested in post-war history and intricate character studies. Readers who enjoy historical novels with a strong emotional core and a richly detailed setting will find this to be an excellent novel. Whether you’re a history buff or a lover of poignant narratives, this book is sure to captivate and inspire.
Pages: 251 | ASIN : B0D3FMNZXF
Stolen Lives
Joyce Yarrow’s novel Stolen Lives, the second installment in the Zahara series, deftly combines historical intrigue with supernatural elements to create a compelling narrative. The protagonist, Alienor, is not only a journalist but also a psychic, gifted with the ability to witness past events through the eyes of her female ancestors. This unique ability embroils her in a dangerous quest to uncover the fate of family members lost under Spain’s Francoist regime and to reunite mothers with children forcibly taken at birth. As the story unfolds, Alienor’s connection to her ancestors deepens, leading her to the discovery of distant relatives and putting her in the crosshairs of unknown adversaries. Her psychic journey also uncovers a trove of stolen gold coins, bringing peril to those she holds dear. This raises a poignant question: Are some stories too perilous to pursue?
Stolen Lives is a masterful blend of suspense and drama, characterized by its fast pace and the seamless integration of multiple timelines and hidden secrets. Yarrow’s narrative prowess is evident in her creation of robust, stubborn characters who are willing to challenge limits to seek justice. While the use of foreign terms occasionally challenges the reader, it ultimately enriches the authenticity and depth of the setting. The novel culminates in a satisfying resolution, providing relief after a series of intense, disheartening events.
For readers drawn to historically rich thrillers that boast engaging dialogue and resilient characters, the Zahara series promises to be a rewarding experience. The author’s notable work captivates and educates, leaving a lasting impression with its intricate storytelling and vivid characterizations.
Joyce Yarrow’s Stolen Lives is a testament to the power of historical narratives woven with supernatural flair. Through its intricate plot and dynamic characters, the novel not only entertains but also invites readers to ponder the ethical implications of delving into painful pasts. This balance of thrill and thought makes the Zahara series a valuable addition to the shelves of those who appreciate thrillers enriched with history and heart.
Pages: 250 | ASIN : B0CXLR3DM3
The Last Rays of Ra
In The Last Rays of Ra, Karina McRoberts crafts a narrative that intertwines crime, magic, and ancient history, transporting readers on an adventurous journey alongside the novel’s central character, Vahlona Selket Faralay. Set against the backdrop of a series of perplexing murders in London, Scotland Yard Detective Jackson Randolph enlists the expertise of Egyptologist Vahlona. Their quest for a mysterious ancient artifact connected to the crimes takes Vahlona to Egypt, where she confronts various challenges, from dealing with dangerous terrorists and misogynistic police officers to facing the perils of the natural world.
McRoberts’s writing style is notable for its vivid atmosphere, effectively contrasting the brisk ambiance of London with the warmth of Egypt. This descriptive prowess immerses readers in diverse settings while maintaining a focus on the unraveling mystery. The novel is a testament to McRoberts’s ability to blend elements from multiple genres, creating a captivating reading experience. The characters are well-developed, each with distinct personalities that add depth to the story. The pacing is skillfully managed, effectively maintaining reader engagement from start to finish. The narrative gains momentum towards the end, offering an exhilarating pace that brings the story to a dynamic conclusion, although some readers might appreciate a more gradual resolution. The book’s strengths, particularly in world-building and character development, make it a compelling read.
The Last Rays of Ra is a remarkable work of fiction that seamlessly blends multiple genres. McRoberts’s writing style is engaging and captivating, which makes the book an immersive experience for the readers. The storyline is particularly appealing to fans of historical mysteries and those who enjoy exploring ancient cultures. With its vivid descriptions and well-crafted characters, The Last Rays of Ra is a must-read for anyone interested in a thrilling adventure that takes them on an unforgettable journey.
Pages: 354 | ASIN : B0CYPVG46Y
How Quickly Relationships Evolve
Spies on Safari follows a group of highly trained spies on a mission to find a hidden treasure that turns out to be more than they initially anticipated. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Going on safari myself! Safaris are my favourite type of vacation, and this book is inspired by one that we took in Botswana in 2022. Since I started to write my previous book, The Repurposed Spy, which I realise now was inspired by my many travel experiences in Latin America, I found that I started to look at my fellow travellers and think, “Are they tourists like me, or do they have some ulterior motive?” Then there was one safari lodge we went to where we were almost the only visitors for 100km in any direction – and I got to thinking, “If someone wanted to hide some illicit activity here, would anyone ever discover it?” With those ideas in mind, the words just flowed!
You have written an engaging cast of characters that, each on their own, would be a thrilling read. What was your approach to writing the interactions between characters to create the bond they have?
They’re all to some extent based on people I have met and worked with, though every character is a blend. I’m fascinated by how people adopt different attitudes to different people they meet, and how quickly relationships evolve. So I started with a cast of characters, and the evolution and bonding – or not! – just came about naturally as I wrote.
How did you balance the action scenes with the story elements and still keep a fast pace in the story?
I try to keep a fast pace going by avoiding what I call “descriptive waffle.” Descriptions and backstories of people and places are essential, of course, but I find a lot of authors just put in too much and tend to be repetitive – making me think, “Please let’s get back to the story.” I’ve been criticised for not including enough description, so it’s obviously not something that I’ve got completely right yet.
I found writing the action scenes difficult. I don’t like gratuitous violence, and guns make me shudder! I knew what characters I had and what end result I wanted, then tried to put myself in their shoes and guess how they would react. Then I found some videos online of relevant action sequences and did my best to describe those! I’ve had good feedback, so I think I did a reasonable job.
I find a problem in well-written stories in that I always want there to be another book to keep the story going. Is there a third book planned?
Indeed there is, and I’m already 10,000 words into it! I was a little stung by criticism of The Repurposed Spy – my idea of a cliffhanger was interpreted as The End by some readers who said, “Don’t read this as there can’t be a sequel.” I hope they’ve retracted now and have been enjoying Spies on Safari.
The third book, Spies on the Silk Road, takes most of the same cast of characters to Central Asia, following a dastardly plot of thefts of high-value medical equipment from Kazakhstan through Kyrgyzstan and on to Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan. And yes, before you even ask, the inspiration came from a long trip that we made just a few months ago. The plots in my book may be pure fiction, but the locations, people, and food are authentic! I’m aiming for Spies on the Silk Road to be published in mid-2024.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Hidden deep within the African wilderness, an elusive mine, impervious to aerial surveillance, holds the potential to shatter fortunes. A desperate client is willing to bet it all to find this hidden treasure, but is this cloak-and-dagger mission truly what it seems?
What begins as a straightforward expedition, a safari expedition spanning Botswana and Namibia, transforms into a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game, teeming with deceit and peril at every twist and turn. Amidst the wild terrain, danger lurks in the form of crocodiles, lions, and cheetahs, but these natural adversaries are the least of their concerns.
The shackles of their former employer, the elusive and enigmatic Mr. Smith, are no longer binding. Now, the formidable trio of Chameleon, Latviana, and Pilot is back in action, each deploying their unique skills in deception, strategic planning, and daring aerial maneuvers. And as if that weren’t enough, a surprising resurrection sends shockwaves through the team, with Ronald Jones emerging from the shadows, thirsting for vengeance.
Spies on Safari masterfully weaves a complex tapestry of intrigue and interconnected plots that intensify towards an electrifying climax. Brace yourself for a spellbinding journey, a rollercoaster of thrills, and an irresistible adventure you won’t be able to put down.
Author Oliver Dowson, with his firsthand globe-trotting escapades, infuses his storytelling with a distinctive realism that sets this spy thriller apart. The second installment in his captivating Spy series, Spies on Safari, promises an exhilarating read. While fans of the first book, The Repurposed Spy, will savor the satisfaction of tying up loose ends, this book can equally enthrall those new to the series. Get ready for a pulse-pounding adventure that will leave you hungry for more!
Truth Is Even More Bizarre
Madam Ricketts follows a second-generation reporter who is writing a book on his father’s research leading him to talk with an elderly Madam in a whorehouse on the Mexican border. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Madam Ricketts is inspired by real life, much closer than you might think. Years ago, I ran out of fuel in Tucson, escaping with my family from a cult. Possessing no skills other than trying to make things better, I quickly found myself on the margins of society, where I met the characters this story is modeled after. There I met bandits with hearts of gold and deep insight into life. Humor without parallel. I enjoyed the company. It seems they enjoyed me, too, because I was included.
The door was open, and I was shown around. I was inspired to write. I began this book in early 1990. I’ve tried to express the spirit of the characters accurately. I avoid reference to any specific person for my personal safety. Although they may have hearts of gold and the humor of standup comedians, they don’t forget or forgive. So everything I write is made up and smudged. Be assured, dear reader, the truth is even more bizarre.
What was your writing process to ensure you captured the essence of the characters?
I watch the movie in my mind, flashing lights, action, adventure, and frustrated love. I buy a ticket, close my eyes, and start writing. There in the midst of my fuzzy thoughts, foggy notions, vanities, and embarrassments are shiny nuggets of gold. The characters are sketchy at first, then come forward to present themselves.
My job is to see them and pass them on. I’m the first person to see the movie. I watch it in my mind. The book is my attempt to be a good scribe.
On capturing the character’s essence, the characters tell me. They show themselves to me. Maudie Ricketts was a very minor character when I started. I thought she was a nobody. How wrong I was.
Some say a book should be written backwards. Start at the end, and work your way back, then everything fits, and you don’t have to go back and correct things. I think that is admirable, but it doesn’t work for me. I like being surprised by what the characters do, just like the readers.
Did you find anything in your research of this story that surprised you?
I didn’t do a lot of research. I created my own world with the help of the Muse. That way, noone can call me wrong, and say: That’s not how it was!
I also wanted to avoid the work it took to be historically accurate. I choose to watch an exciting movie in my mind rather than do homework.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes. The second book, The Demise of Madam Ricketts and Other Stories is finished and is in the clean-up stage. It should be ready in early 2024.
It tells the story of the survivors of the first book. Seventeen characters from Madam Ricketts are each given a chapter and followed into the future.
The third book of the series, Food Truck Murder is currently being framed up. It tells the story of the survivors of the second book, following them even further into the future, looking at the consequences of decisions made long ago. So there’s more frustrated love, aging semi-heroes, Indians, drugs, a border town of crusty characters, and new dramas.
Is there anything else you want to share with your readers?
Yes. I’ve been a songwriter my whole adult life, and it’s reflected in my style. I deliberately tried to instill a feeling of rhythm in Madam Ricketts: So many words to a sentence, so many feelings in a paragraph, a balanced bite with each breath, move it along, breezy and easy to read, not cramped and crowded. Sometimes I make up words. I use words that rhyme all the time. No soliloquy. No filler. Sexual allusion but no trash. Bloody but not messy.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Amazon
He interviews Maudie Ricketts, the elderly madam of a whorehouse on the Mexican border. She tells of her adventures in New England on the riverboat Lady Minerva and her travels to Arizona in Brother Tucker’s Redemption Caravan that led to her becoming the ‘white’ wife of a rich and cruel man who already had a family. She reveals the dark side of families that loved, deceived, and murdered each other for generations between 1875 and 1953.
As he listens to the stories, Wesley begins to wonder. Is Madam Ricketts who she claims to be? A witness or victim, or something more?
LITERARY TITAN 