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Transplanted Evil

Meet Elizabeth Bennington. A shy young girl raised in privilege with a distant and uncaring father and a doting and overly protective mother outside of Boston in the neighboring town of Charlestown. Yet, despite coming from wealth, Elizabeth was born with a congenital heart condition, leading to bullying at school, hopelessness, and a failed suicide attempt rescued by her parents. She is sent to Bourneville psychiatric hospital, where she undergoes transformative therapy sessions, dramatically improving her outlook on life. She is released after a year. But Elizabeth has a secret: she can see into the future and is haunted by recurring nightmares foreshadowing unspeakable acts of murder involving a mysterious young man with hair the color of a raven splattered with blood. Marty Bowles attends school with Elizabeth and is madly in love with her, almost obsessed with her. Marty’s propensity for violence at school, his depraved lust for killing stray animals, and his involvement with the black arts, including demonic worship, conjuring a demon named Kashgar, and possession, directly threaten her. Could Marty be the mysterious young man in her nightmares who will stop at nothing to gain her love and unite them with his sinister plan?

Nameless vs the Army of the Dead: Book one of the Nameless Saga

Set against the backdrop of the 19th-century Victorian era, Nameless vs. The Army of the Dead by Brett Comeau immerses readers in the beleaguered city of Geneva. Amidst the nightly terror inflicted by the enigmatic Darklings, who mercilessly target the impoverished, a unique hero emerges. This nameless, deformed youth, embodying resilience and bravery, stands as a beacon of hope during these harrowing times. Alongside two loyal companions, he confronts the Darklings, striving to unveil their sinister motives and protect the city.

Brett Comeau’s novel is a masterful blend of horror and adventure, paced with riveting momentum. The protagonist, though unnamed, captivates with his charismatic presence, making him a character readers will enthusiastically support. This narrative is a treasure for aficionados of the macabre, showcasing exemplary world-building skills and enthralling action sequences.

While primarily a young adult novel, this book ventures into the realms of Stephen King-esque gore and Gothic horror. The heart of the story lies in the profound friendship among the youthful trio, who display remarkable maturity and resolve in contrast to the ineffectual and divided adults of Geneva.

Comeau skillfully leads the narrative to a climactic unraveling of the mystery behind the Darklings’ reign of terror. The finale is brilliantly executed, leaving an indelible mark in the realm of young adult fiction with its ingenious and mind-bending resolution. Nameless vs. The Army of the Dead is not just a thrilling read but an exploration of courage, camaraderie, and the fight against overwhelming darkness.

Pages: 290 | ASIN : B0CQ4LQKXF

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Expiration Date: a Short Story Collection

Expiration Date by Bert Whirl is an anthology of short stories that weave together emotional depth, thought-provoking themes, and engaging narratives. The collection opens with the poignant tale of Juan, grappling with the profound loss of his beloved Jennifer. Despite facing opposition from her father, Juan’s enduring love and deep grief are captured with a poignant clarity that resonates with anyone familiar with loss. The author’s skillful use of vivid descriptions and nuanced portrayal of emotions draws the reader deeply into Juan’s world.

Following this is a story of ambition and the supernatural, centered on a young man’s venture into real estate. His plans to renovate an abandoned building for profit are unexpectedly complicated by the discovery of spirits lingering within its walls. This narrative takes the reader on a suspenseful journey, questioning the intersection of ambition and the unknown. Another compelling narrative is that of Christian, a new executioner confronted with the grim realities of his role. His internal turmoil and ethical dilemmas provide a gripping exploration of the human psyche and the moral complexities surrounding justice and retribution. The story delves into the profound impact of his first execution, leaving readers to contemplate the weight of such responsibilities. The collection continues with more stories, each delving into rarely explored themes such as love, family, relationships, and the afterlife. Whirl’s concise and direct storytelling captivates the reader, ensuring a lingering impact long after the final page is turned. The book’s exploration of profound themes through accessible and engaging narratives makes it a compelling read.

Expiration Date is an invitation to reflect on life’s multifaceted experiences. Bert Whirl’s ability to convey deep emotional truths and thought-provoking scenarios in a straightforward manner makes this book a noteworthy addition to any reader’s library, especially those with an appreciation for short fiction that leaves a lasting impression.

Pages: 61 | ASIN : B0C9WNM79D

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Stranger in the Valley

Stranger in the Valley, by Gregory Haley, offers a blend of mystery and fantasy in a narrative set against the backdrop of rural Oregon. The protagonist, AJ, a former soldier seeking tranquility, unexpectedly stumbles upon the body of a murdered and mutilated sheriff. This discovery thrusts him into the role of the main suspect, compelling him to navigate the complexities of Mystic Valley, a town brimming with hidden secrets and surreal elements.

The novel combines elements reminiscent of the iconic Twin Peaks TV series with echoes of the Artemis Fowl teen adventure books. This amalgamation situates it within the shifter genre but with its own unique twist. Haley’s narrative weaves horror motifs with detective tropes, creating a tapestry that is rich yet, I feel, occasionally inconsistent in tone.

AJ, the protagonist, is portrayed with a foundation of realism and pragmatism. His skepticism towards the increasingly fantastical events he encounters adds a layer of complexity to the narrative and a layer of intrigue, inviting readers to engage more deeply with the story’s fantastical elements and explore their own interpretations. The vividly depicted cast of characters, including a vengeful dwarf and a mysterious lycanthrope, enrich the story. The portrayal of these mythical beings and an enigmatic doctor contributes to the lively atmosphere of Mystic Valley. AJ’s role as the narrator offers a unique perspective, while the dynamic supporting characters truly bring the setting of Mystic Valley to life, enriching the narrative with their vibrancy and intrigue.

Future installments of the Stranger in the Valley series hold great promise. Book 1 hints at an evolving mastery of this unique genre-blending style. Stranger in the Valley takes readers on an enthralling journey through a world where mystery and the uncanny are beautifully intertwined.

Pages: 347 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0C87XVPL8

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Literary Titan Gold Book Award January 2024

The Literary Titan Book Award celebrates books with creative ideas and honors authors skilled in transforming words into exquisite prose. These remarkable books elevate the craft of storytelling. Here’s to the talented authors who’ve turned original concepts into wonderfully crafted books. Your extraordinary skill merits every ounce of this acknowledgment.

Award Recipients

Don’t Comb From That Angle! by Dr. Ashley Simone Little

Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.

Literary Titan Silver Book Awards January 2024

Celebrating the genius of exceptional writers who have mesmerized us with distinctive prose, vibrant settings, and intriguing personas. Explore a cosmos of fresh creativity, acknowledging novels that shine due to their inventive plots and exceptional storytelling. Join us in recognizing the commitment and effort of these notable authors as we celebrate the wonderful universes they’ve created.

Award Recipients

Visit the Literary Titan Book Awards page to see award information.

Someone Died In My House

Someone Died in My House, by Meg Howald, presents a unique psychological thriller, intricately woven around a historical murder mystery in Ben Needham’s residence. The narrative centers on Ben’s quest to eliminate a formidable, possibly hazardous entity from his home, a journey that compels him to delve into a long-concealed murder. Aided by Dr. Rose Henhawke and Dr. Joseph Hightower, experts in psychology and quantum physics, Ben embarks on a path of discovery that challenges the boundaries of science and the supernatural.

This novel distinguishes itself in the realm of psychological thrillers through its skillful integration of scientific elements with the paranormal, creating a captivating mix of suspense and mystery. Meg Howald’s characters are exceptionally well-developed, bringing an almost tangible presence to the story. The reader is drawn into the depths of the enigmatic force in Ben’s house, slowly unraveling the terrifying scope of its capabilities.

A noteworthy aspect of Howald’s writing is the interplay of tension and humor. Mark, Ben’s best friend, provides periodic comic relief, offering a welcome respite from the novel’s intense suspense. This balance enriches the narrative, adding depth and relief to the otherwise high-stakes plot.

For those interested in a psychological thriller that expertly blends suspense with relatable characters, Someone Died in My House is a compelling choice. It’s a novel that engages the reader without overwhelming, promising a thrilling journey into the unknown.

Pages: 293 | ASIN : B0CN4ZX9WC

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Hallows Eve

William Oswald invites readers into a deceptively quaint town with Hallows Eve, a collection of short stories where an undercurrent of malice undermines the surface serenity. This anthology, set against the quintessential backdrop of Halloween, unravels a tapestry of terror, weaving together narratives that explore the darkest corners of a seemingly innocent locale.

Oswald excels in creating a palpable sense of suspense that keeps readers teetering on the precipice of fear. From the enigmatic town witch to a sinister masked murderer, from a haunted house ritual gone awry to a store clerk’s night of relentless hauntings, each tale escalates in tension and complexity. The stories, while distinct, subtly intertwine, hinting at a larger, interconnected nightmare that plagues the town. A standout in the horror genre, Hallows Eve: Halloween in Harvest Creek, showcases Oswald’s adeptness at crafting narratives that are as terrifying as they are captivating. The book delves into graphic and sometimes brutal details, but these elements are never gratuitous, instead heightening the sense of imminent dread that pervades each story. The vividness of Oswald’s prose pulls readers into the heart of the action, making them witnesses to the unfolding horror. Each story concludes with a deftly executed twist, eschewing predictability and leaving a lingering sense of unease.

Oswald’s ability to surprise and unsettle is a testament to his storytelling prowess, ensuring that Hallows Eve: Halloween in Harvest Creek is a collection that will resonate with enthusiasts of the genre seeking originality and thrill. In this chilling anthology, readers are not merely observers but companions in a journey through the macabre, where each turn of the page is a step deeper into the unknown.

Page: 115 | ASIN : B0CHR9V7RP

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