Blog Archives
Reciprocity
D.C. Gilbert’s Reciprocity is a high-octane thriller packed with action, intrigue, and morally complex characters. The story follows a cast of ex-military operatives, crime bosses, and corrupt officials, navigating a dangerous world of underground fights, organized crime, and government conspiracies. At its core, the book explores themes of justice, revenge, and redemption, as characters with violent pasts seek their own form of moral balance in a world that rarely plays fair.
The writing is gritty and immersive, pulling me straight into a sweaty, blood-soaked underground fight in the Philippines. Taylor, a haunted ex-soldier drowning in alcohol and self-destruction, makes for a compelling protagonist. His fight scenes are brutal and visceral, making me wince and cheer in equal measure. The novel doesn’t just deliver on action; it builds a shadowy, morally ambiguous world where every victory comes with a cost. There’s a raw energy in Gilbert’s prose that reminds me of classic action thrillers—lean, sharp, and relentless.
While I appreciate rich world-building, there were moments when I wanted the plot to move faster. And while the dialogue generally felt authentic, some conversations leaned a bit into exposition. Still, the authenticity in military and combat sequences, combined with the sheer adrenaline of the story, more than made up for this.
If you love action-packed thrillers with hardened warriors, ruthless villains, and a deep dive into the seedy underworld of crime and corruption, Reciprocity is for you. Fans of Lee Child, Vince Flynn, or Mark Greaney will find plenty to enjoy here. It’s rough, intense, and occasionally brutal, but it delivers a gripping ride that doesn’t let up.
If you’re looking for a book that keeps you on edge with a mix of action, espionage, and personal demons, Reciprocity is worth your time.
Pages: 322 | ASIN : B0DZK6GKH1
Kickback A Dafne Olabarrieta Mexico Mystery Book 1
Ana Manwaring’s Kickback, the first installment in the Dafne Olabarrieta Mexico Mystery series, delivers a gripping crime thriller set against the backdrop of Mexico’s complex criminal underworld. The novel’s fast-paced narrative introduces Dafne Olabarrieta, a determined and multifaceted protagonist, whose journey unfolds with both intensity and emotional depth. The story begins with an intimate domestic moment: Dafne and her husband are having breakfast, debating the prospect of starting a family. While her husband pushes for this next step, Dafne remains focused on her career. The tranquility is shattered when a call from an estranged friend catapults Dafne into a dangerous world. From leading her firm to utilizing her hostage negotiation training, Dafne is drawn into a high-stakes race to rescue a child, navigating a labyrinth of corruption, loyalty, and moral ambiguity.
Manwaring’s intelligent prose is enriched by seamless cultural integration, with Spanish phrases and expressions adding authenticity and texture to the dialogue. Even common idioms, such as “ay,” resonate naturally in the narrative. The book’s structure also deserves praise, with its numbered and titled chapters, a thoughtful touch that enhances the reading experience in a genre where such details are often overlooked.
Dafne’s character is skillfully portrayed as both relatable and compelling. Torn between family obligations, her class-conscious mother’s expectations, a husband eager for stability, and the betrayal of her former friend Alba, Dafne’s internal struggles parallel the external chaos of the mission. The stakes are high, and personal tragedy intensifies the emotional gravity of her journey. Yet, Dafne’s resilience and moral grounding guide her through the violence and grief, reflecting a powerful arc of growth and healing.
While Kickback is undeniably a taut thriller, it transcends genre conventions by exploring themes of forgiveness, loss, and the human capacity to endure. Dafne is not without flaws, but these imperfections make her all the more believable amid the novel’s relentless pace and intricate plot. Manwaring’s nuanced exploration of the human condition elevates the story, ensuring readers are both captivated by the suspense and moved by its emotional resonance.
Kickback is a crime thriller that is a testament to the complexities of human relationships and the strength required to confront life’s darkest moments. With its engaging narrative and deep emotional undertones, this is a book that will leave readers eager for the next chapter in Dafne Olabarrieta’s journey.
Pages: 363 | ASIN : B0DJL8F8NL
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
One For The Money
Ryan Hale’s debut novel, One For the Money, introduces readers to Blake Franklin, a former Fort Worth cop turned private investigator, in the first installment of The Blake Franklin Investigations Series. Despite failing the detective exam three times, Blake’s tenacity is undiminished. His transition from law enforcement to private investigation begins with financial backing from his uncle Lewis, setting the stage for his new career. Blake is quickly entangled in a series of cases involving a disreputable car dealer accused of scamming elderly women. His investigation reveals a sinister network of missing individuals, suspicious deaths, and menacing adversaries, escalating the danger as he digs deeper. As the situation intensifies with more lives at risk and a mounting body count, Blake’s quest to recover the stolen cars threatens to disturb a volatile criminal element.
Against a backdrop of vintage automobiles and nefarious activities, Hale crafts a narrative rich with intrigue and action. While Blake’s investigative methods sometimes appear hasty and lack refinement, reflecting his inexperience, these traits also bring a dynamic unpredictability to his character. His natural charm and commitment to justice are his greatest assets, particularly as the stakes grow and the case draws federal attention. The narrative is bolstered by a robust cast of supporting characters. Figures like the affable Sharon Longstreet and the formidable Madeline Bailey provide emotional depth and complexity to the storyline, enriching the reader’s engagement. Fans of crime fiction and thrillers with a penchant for classic cars will find much to appreciate in Hale’s novel. It offers a compelling blend of suspense, sharp plot twists, and a touch of humor that keeps the pages turning.
One For the Money is a thrilling series opener, inviting readers to follow Blake Franklin as he navigates the murky waters of private investigation. Ryan Hale skillfully combines suspense, character development, and action elements, making this an excellent read for anyone drawn to gritty, realistic crime fiction. Whether you’re a devotee of detective stories or a newcomer to the genre, Blake Franklin’s daring escapades and the vivid backdrop of this suspenseful narrative will surely capture and hold your attention.
Pages: 238 | ASIN : B0BW51BJZP
Bye Baby Bye
Bye Baby Bye by Kelly Marshall delves deep into the heart-wrenching journey of a mother’s relentless pursuit to reunite with her kidnapped child. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Texas and Mexico, the story unfolds with Madison’s daughter, Anna, being abducted. The narrative spirals into a thrilling chain of events as a recovery effort to rescue Anna goes terribly awry.
Madison, fortified by the unwavering support of her father and the influential Governor of Texas, Dixon Theodore Tucker, audaciously ventures back to a place of personal terror. Once a captive forced into a marriage with the second-in-command of Mexico’s most formidable cartel, she braves her past to reclaim her daughter. The narrative is interlaced with sacrifice and loss, yet amidst the despair, there are silver linings of love and renewed chances at life.
This crime fiction not only holds its readers captive with the suspense of a child’s kidnapping and the measures taken to identify the culprit but also paints a grim picture of the corrupt nature of power dynamics. The narrative spotlights those in positions of authority who, driven by selfish motives and political vendettas, neglect their primary duties. A case in point is Attorney General Forrester, who lets personal differences with Governor Tucker overshadow the urgency of the investigation. His decisions, especially regarding a prisoner exchange, exacerbate the challenges of finding Anna.
Marshall’s adept storytelling is accentuated by her penchant for unexpected plot twists, ensuring readers are constantly on their toes. Additionally, her ability to weave in moments of levity amidst a predominantly somber theme showcases her narrative finesse. However, certain inconsistencies, such as the disjointed account of Madison’s proposed visit to Jose in prison across chapters nine and twelve, do stand out and warrant more seamless integration.
Bye Baby Bye is a gripping tale that traverses the terrain of love, loss, and the darker shades of humanity, making it a must-read for those who appreciate layered crime fiction.
Pages: 138
For What It’s Worth
For What It’s Worth follows the adventurous escapades of high school senior Jon Ryan and his friends Hernandez, Fonz, and Weasel. Set in the twilight of their school years, these young individuals are united by a shared aspiration to execute pranks that will secure their legacy as unforgettable characters within their community. They embark on a journey of pranks, guided by a unique set of rules. However, their path is fraught with unpredictability, and not everything unfolds as they expect.
Simultaneously, there is a parallel narrative involving a group of friends who, too, find that their well-laid plans unravel unexpectedly. The story intriguingly juxtaposes these seemingly unrelated events and leads to a compelling climax that leaves the reader questioning whether Jon Ryan and his friends will even make it to graduation.
Pettijohn has created a vivid cast that’s appealing, grounded, and relatable. Jon Ryan, despite his flaws, such as being slightly overweight, indulging in alcohol, and dabbling in recreational drugs, emerges as an engaging protagonist. His friends—Hernandez, Fonz, and Weasel—are well-fleshed-out characters, their antics providing consistent entertainment. The chemistry between these characters and their perfect balance adds depth and texture to the narrative.
The pace is quick, while the setting is artfully described, evoking curiosity about the surroundings and the people in them. The action sequences are meticulous, punctuated with heart-stopping moments that keep the readers on the edge of their seats. Pettijohn’s willingness to explore flawed characters confronted with daunting challenges enriches the tale, encompassing all the components for an exhilarating read. Taking place over a matter of days, I think the narrative’s continual leaps between timelines can, at times, hinder the reading experience, causing a slight disconnect.
For What It’s Worth is a novel bursting with originality, fun, and excitement. The blend of humor, suspense, and character-driven storytelling makes for a compelling read. Although the story’s structure may be a point of contention for some, it doesn’t diminish the overall enjoyment. I recommend this book to anyone in search of a fresh and lively literary adventure.
Pages: 253 | ASIN : B0CC11QDNX
A Long Night Cry
In the illustrious wake of two previous masterpieces, Terry Weaver once again proves his literary prowess with his third installment, A Long Night Cry, in the highly acclaimed Eli Ridge detective series. For aficionados of suspenseful police procedurals, intricately woven criminal mysteries, electrifying thrillers, and narratives that unmask the complexities of vigilante justice, getting acquainted with the character of Eli Ridge is an absolute must.
Weaver’s tale delves into a poignant exploration of contemporarily pressing issues, including murder, kidnapping, drug cartels, systemic corruption, and the debilitating impact of emotionally distant families. The plot thickens as three teenage girls — a Mexican immigrant, a senator’s daughter, and her intimate friend — mysteriously disappear. While societal and political pressures force Ridge to primarily focus on locating the senator’s daughter, he staunchly believes that every victim warrants an equal amount of concern and investigative rigor. This moral compass leads him down a treacherous path, as his pursuit of justice threatens his career and endangers those closest to him.
The author’s exemplary storytelling swiftly ensnares readers in a maelstrom of suspense, emotional turmoil, and an ever-growing anticipation of the narrative’s next development. Weaver’s adroit narrative techniques serve to augment the story’s suspense as each chapter delves deeper into the narrative, cleverly piecing together the mystery surrounding the missing girls and keeping readers on edge. In particular, Eli Ridge’s character will likely resonate with many as we share in his struggles and emotional descent triggered by the escalating events, creating a deep connection that echoes long after the final page.
A Long Night Cry is a thoroughly engaging read that stands as a testament to Weaver’s talent for suspense. For those unacquainted with the Eli Ridge series, fear not, as this book can certainly be enjoyed as a standalone novel. However, the reading experience will undoubtedly be enriched if you’ve had the pleasure of delving into the earlier works, namely A Dark Day in Texas and Whitewashed Tomb. A Long Night Cry is a truly captivating narrative that is entirely worth your time.
Pages: 354 | ASIN : B0C43LX91K
A Bit of Truth Mixed Into Fiction
Rock Band Roadie follows a sixteen-year-old girl growing up in the projects who dreams of becoming a singer in a band, only to have her dream become a nightmare. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I played the keyboard in the gospel rock band called Cross Road Band. The first couple of chapters were taken from real-life events, which set up the story.
Some events in the book were chillingly similar to real-life events. Did you take any inspiration from real life when developing this book?
Yes, the prison riot was a true event. I was one of the keyboardists who hid behind the curtain until it was over (but no one was kidnapped or escaped in the real event). The events in Patterson were also true. The projects and the park where we played as well as the occurrences written about it were true. We often had other teenagers come along (‘roadies’ if you will) to help pass out literature or help set up. The band traveled to maximum security prisons and juvenile detention centers to sing and play and then stayed in communication with a number of the inmates.
What was one of the hardest parts of Rock Band Roadie for you to write?
Probably the hardest part was staging the prison escape and making it believable. I consulted with a policeman and a military judge for details and accuracy. This started out as a short story and evolved into a book through the advice of these men. And the title is always one of the hardest tasks for me.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
There are a couple I’m mulling around in my head at this point. One will be a coming-of-age story about a pre-teen boy who migrates to the USA in search of his father.
The other will be about a child who yearns for a magic dress that will keep her from disappearing like her friend did. A story of terrible secrets of child trafficking.
When will they be available? Hopefully by fall of 2024
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
Through a few twists and turns, Jemma overcomes her trauma as her dream is about to come true. Tonight she will sing with the band in a maximum security prison. Nerves on edge as she walks to the stage, she senses a man’s eyes following her every move. When the lights suddenly die, a riot breaks out and panic erupts. Cowering in the darkness, Jemma’s scream is stifled when an oily hand clasps her mouth shut and drags her into the deep bowels of the prison.
All she wanted to do was sing — she didn’t plan on being kidnapped and part of a getaway plan. Will she be able to talk her way out this time, or was she in on it the whole time?
LITERARY TITAN 