Blog Archives
Protective Instinct
Joy York’s Protective Instinct stands out with its sharp and captivating storytelling. The narrative pulls readers into a whirlwind of suspense and action, where each plot twist defies prediction, keeping them breathlessly turning pages. Every scene pulses with energy, expertly crafted to leave readers on edge, immersed in an atmosphere brimming with danger and intrigue.
The characters shine in their complexity. Morgan Skylar, a tough and resourceful kindergarten teacher with survival instincts hidden beneath her seemingly innocent demeanor, brings a dynamic and relatable strength to the story. Sebastian “Bash” Bartoli, the self-absorbed crime fiction writer, must grapple with his own shortcomings as he’s thrust into peril far removed from his life of privilege and literary fame. Their evolving relationship adds an emotional layer to the tension, especially as they’re forced to rely on each other when the bullets start flying. York’s deft characterization extends even to the secondary players like the powerful Fontana family, whose tangled web of secrets keeps the stakes high and the reader guessing. The chemistry between Morgan and Bash is palpable, growing convincingly amidst the chaos. Their journey from mistrust to mutual reliance, underscored by hints of romance, is seamlessly woven into the thrilling plot.
Protective Instinct moves far beyond the average suspense thriller; it’s a masterful blend of high-stakes drama, unexpected revelations, and deeply engaging characters. York delivers a story that hits every mark for fans of thrillers infused with emotional depth and relentless action. If you crave suspense laced with intensity and character-driven surprises, Joy York’s novel is a must-read.
Pages: 287 | ASIN : B0CPDQ8MCL
Into the Mist
In a world where past and present collide… Cheyenne Tanner, heartbroken and lost, stumbles upon a Victorian mansion shrouded in mist. Inside, forgotten memories whisper through dusty hallways… and the past beckons her. Slipping into the year 1895, she meets Augustus Moore, a man whose fate is destined to intertwine with hers. As time fractures, Cheyenne uncovers a sinister plot—a betrayal that could destroy everything and everyone she has come to love. Can her heart’s strength rewrite destiny? “Into the Mist.” Hurry, time is running out.
TY
In a city gripped by fear and ruled by the iron fist of Albanian kingpin Kajan Marnesh (K.M.), fourteen-year-old Tyrone Lewis’ (Ty) life is a relentless battle for survival. Hardened by neglect and violence, Ty’s world is turned upside down when he and his friend Asha discover an abandoned baby beside its dead young mother in an alleyway. This unexpected responsibility ignites a new purpose within him.
However, their journey through the gritty streets of London and the struggle to protect the baby lands Ty in jail, which is a harsh reality for a boy already burdened by life’s cruelties. But even behind bars, Ty’s resolve only strengthens. Upon his release, he is more determined than ever to change.
Ty forms the Hay Patrollers, a gang with a difference. Alongside Asha and other like-minded youths, they become the guardians of their community, providing support and safety where needed most. From encouraging the youth to return to school, running errands for the elderly, wiping out racism and knife crime, to standing up against the oppressive forces that haunt their streets, the Hay Patrollers are a beacon of hope in a dark world.
This gripping story follows Ty’s transformation from a victim of circumstance to a leader of change. His journey is one of resilience, bravery, and the unyielding belief that even the most unlikely heroes can make a difference.
Literary Titan Silver Book Award November 2024
Celebrating the brilliance of outstanding authors who have captivated us with their skillful prose, engaging narratives, and compelling real and imagined characters. We recognize books that stand out for their innovative storytelling and insightful exploration of truth and fiction. Join us in honoring the dedication and skill of these remarkable authors as we celebrate the diverse and rich worlds they’ve brought to life, whether through the realm of imagination or the lens of reality.
Award Recipients
The Stanton Falls Mysteries – Undercurrents of Betrayal by Susan Reed-Flores
Ravenswwod by Anthony James
Justified Homicide by Kelly Marshall
HARD ROAD TO FREEDOM by Stephen Carter
Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.
Finding Magdalena
Finding Magdalena, by Shannon Condon, embarks on a gripping journey with Magdalena “Maggie” Curran, a teenager whose life is upended after a tragic car accident claims her parents. Set against the prestigious backdrop of Easton Academy, where Maggie is a scholarship student, this coming-of-age story navigates themes of grief, survival, and the enduring power of love. Maggie’s struggle to adapt to her new reality as an orphan is palpable and her deepening friendship with the charming and protective Graham brings warmth to her otherwise lonely world. As Maggie ventures beyond her comfort zone and meets new people, unsettling secrets begin to surface, threatening both her safety and peace of mind.
Condon delivers a fast-paced and emotionally charged young adult read that blends grief, romance, suspense, and tension. The story hooks readers with its portrayal of raw emotion, complex friendships, and Maggie’s journey of self-discovery. The narrative deftly weaves together the past and present, testing the strength of its characters in ways that keep readers on edge. From the outset, Finding Magdalena sets a promising tone, drawing readers into Maggie’s shattered world after the sudden death of her parents. The writing builds an emotional foundation, hinting at the deep exploration of loss and suspense that lies ahead. The elite boarding school setting adds to the intrigue, and the initial hints of mystery beneath Maggie’s grief suggest an intense, thrilling ride. Maggie’s relationship with Graham is heartfelt and one of the book’s more compelling aspects. Her nightmares and anxieties are rendered realistically, and the simple, accessible writing makes the book a fast and engaging read.
I do feel the themes of grief and self-discovery seem to take a back seat halfway through the plot as the focus shifts heavily toward romance. Though the romantic elements are well-executed, the transition seems abrupt, as though two different stories—one of loss and one of high school love—are competing for attention. I would love to have seen a slightly more nuanced balance between these two elements. The thriller aspects remain intriguing as there are moments of genuine suspense and emotional resonance that shine through, particularly in Maggie’s relationships with Graham and Sarah, and how an unexpected friendship helps her break out of her shell. These elements keep the reader engaged and invested in Maggie’s plight.
Finding Magdalena offers moments of emotional depth, tension, and heart and is a compelling read for those who enjoy fast-paced young adult fiction with a mix of romance and suspense. I recommend Shannon Condon’s thriller to any reader seeking a new author and a cast of relatable characters to explore.
Pages: 372 | ASIN : B089QLLCN7
Cans of Cola Just Don’t Cry
Cans of Cola Just Don’t Cry, written by Carolyn Summer Quinn, is a charming and engaging cozy mystery set against the vibrant backdrop of the Florida Keys. The story follows 63-year-old retired editor Nola Carmody, who moves to this remote location with plans to investigate an old bank robbery case. However, her quiet life takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a mysterious box labeled “cans of cola” on her dock, only to find a chimpanzee trapped inside. This startling discovery launches Nola into a thrilling investigation of animal traffickers, even as she continues to grapple with the unsolved crime from her past.
Quinn expertly blends elements of mystery, suspense, and humor, making the novel a delightful read for fans of crime fiction. The exploration of animal trafficking adds a thought-provoking layer to the plot, shedding light on an important issue while keeping the story engaging and accessible. The setting in the Florida Keys is vividly described, capturing the essence of the island region and immersing readers in its unique atmosphere. Nola’s character is a refreshing protagonist—an older woman with wit, determination, and a sense of humor. Her interactions with a colorful cast of characters, including the dashing Shamus and the lovable chimpanzee, Lollapalooza, are heartwarming and entertaining. Even the villains are crafted with depth, adding tension and intrigue to the story. Quinn’s lighthearted tone and sharp storytelling keep the pace lively, though I feel certain portions of the novel feel slightly drawn out with details that don’t significantly advance the plot.
Cans of Cola Just Don’t Cry is a thoroughly enjoyable read. Quinn deftly handles the dual motifs of an old bank robbery and present-day animal trafficking, weaving them into a compelling narrative that balances mystery with moments of romance and humor. This cozy mystery will appeal to readers who love crime fiction with a twist of lighthearted fun and a focus on timely issues.
Pages: 186 | ASIN : B0DH85KL9K
LITERARY TITAN 