Blog Archives
Conflict of Intrigues
Conflict of Intrigues: The Marylebone Intersection, the first book in the Intersection series by ML Yost, introduces readers to Professor Jon Markston, a former member of the British Army intelligence corps who finds himself in an exacting position when a mysterious call signals a decade-old troubled mission. Alongside him is Katherine McKenna, an American publishing executive in London who is also struggling with a kindred dilemma. As the two former intelligencers, now professor and publisher, cross paths, they soon realize their conflicting interests could impact a broader audience than they initially anticipated.
ML Yost has managed to create a lasting impression with Conflict of Intrigues. Set in 2015, Yost has carefully curated fictional characters against the backdrop of real-life events, crafting an impeccable example of historical fiction. The story depicts the role of British intelligence during the war in Iraq, introducing characters as former intelligence officers whose past has made it difficult for them to continue down the same path. Yost has done an excellent job of creating each character’s backstory, adding depth and layers to their personalities. Additionally, the author has added fantastic side characters, such as Harold MacAlister, who gives this action-packed book a comical edge.
This psychological thriller is equally funny and thrilling, with each scene meticulously planned and written in a visually descriptive manner. Despite the unpredictable twists and turns, Yost’s straightforward writing style doesn’t overcomplicate the story. Furthermore, the author has accurately presented the events as they happened in real life, incorporating historical details at the appropriate times.
Conflict of Intrigues is a well-crafted book that stands out for its excellent storytelling, historical accuracy, and well-rounded characters. Yost has expertly blended elements of history, psychological thrillers, and humor, making this an engaging read that leaves readers wanting more.
Pages: 302 | ASIN : B0BN4SBK11
It Originally Had A Darker Ending
High Risk follows a self-absorbed businessman who becomes trapped in his building for four days with no internet, phone, water, or a way out. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
This story was originally written in 1999 as a screenplay. The idea came about when I was sitting in my office late at night working, and the cleaning crew came around. I wondered what would happen if they accidentally locked me in the building. My office wasn’t 50 stories high like Jim, but this idea of being locked in intrigued me. The basic premise for Jim came together quickly in my head, and I emailed my writing partner about it (who happened to be working late), and he got excited about it, too. The full story and details of the screenplay came together very quickly after that. It was probably the fastest and easiest thing we’ve written. It was one of those rare moments where the story just flowed. There is one key difference between the original screenplay and the final version—the ending. It originally had a darker ending, something neither of us liked. In subsequent revisions, we settled on something very close to the version in the book.
The screenplay seemed like it might get made in the early mid-2000’s. After it stalled out, it sat on the shelf for many years until the pandemic hit, and I decided to turn it into a book. Anyone who read the screenplay really liked it, and a common note we got from readers was that it was a fast and thrilling read. My writing partner and I were very proud of it and thought people would enjoy it, so it bothered me when it became this dead story. During the pandemic, I re-wrote it as a book and enjoyed the process so much that I wrote three more books and plan to continue.
I felt that there were a lot of great twists and turns throughout the novel. Did you plan this before writing the novel, or did the twists develop organically writing?
Most of the twists and turns happened as we plotted out the story. I’ve never had a story reveal itself as easily as this one. The only thing we struggled with was the ending. The original ending felt like it worked, but I didn’t like it. My writing partner and I kept kicking around versions and eventually settled on the final ending.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
We were both much younger in our careers when we first wrote this, and we saw executives who were older than us who had let their work consume their lives. Despite their success, they didn’t seem happy. Some people seemed to prefer being in the office rather than being at home. The book is by no means an anti-work story, but it does offer a picture of what can happen if you define yourself by your career and money.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I’m working on a sequel to Nina Winter and the Age of Darkness which will be released at the end of the year. I also write short stories that I post on my website, and a new one should be released in May.
Author Links: Website | GoodReads | Twitter
From the authors of the mind-bending epic, HISTORY OF LIES, comes HIGH RISK, an intense, claustrophobic thriller set fifty stories high.
An ambitious business executive, Jim Sloane, is imprisoned in his high-rise office over the long holiday without food, water, or power. Cut off from the world, Jim must figure out who locked him in and why. As he unravels the mystery, Jim discovers that his list of enemies is long and his time to escape is short.
Can he find a way out, or will he die trying?
The Unholy Mother
The Unholy Mother is a compelling and memorable novel that will leave a lasting impression on readers. The story follows Kim, Jamie, and William, a family who travels to the Bahamas for the launch of Jamie’s new adventure reality TV show. However, their trip takes a dark turn as Kim, still reeling from a miscarriage, suspects an affair between Jamie and his TV producer Sydney. As events unfold, Kim’s mental state deteriorates, culminating in a suicide attempt. Meanwhile, Jamie is attacked at the show’s preview, and when the commotion of the night settles, he succumbs to Sydney’s advances. In the midst of all the chaos, their son William goes missing. The plot thickens as Jamie and Kim bury their secrets and set out on a perilous mission to an island with a sinister past in a desperate attempt to find their son and repair their fractured marriage.
Author Wolf’s writing style is both thrilling and thought-provoking, keeping readers engaged and wanting more. The characters of Kim and Jamie are well-developed, and their perspectives, along with that of the narrator, provide a deep understanding of their thoughts and motives. While Kim’s character initially portrays her as a heartbroken woman, her transformation throughout the story will shock readers. On the other hand, Jamie’s character, who is initially painted as the villain, will surprise readers with his true intentions. As the story progresses, the suspense builds, and readers are given clues about what happened on the night of William’s disappearance. The unexpected twist at the end of the story will leave readers satisfied and wanting more. This thrilling tale is expertly crafted, taking readers on a journey through a web of secrets, betrayal, and intrigue.
With skillful storytelling and well-developed characters, The Unholy Mother is a masterful work of fiction that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Fans of suspenseful, character-driven stories will not be disappointed by this compelling novel. I highly recommend it and look forward to reading more of the author’s work.
Pages: 296 | ASIN : B0BTG9GDXC
Hidden Shadow
Hidden Shadow is an enthralling novel that chronicles the life of Sophie Thomas, a young woman with dual careers as a psychologist and interior designer. Amidst significant life upheavals, including newfound singledom, a lost job opportunity, and an inherited property, Sophie is tormented by a recurring, vivid nightmare that begins to seep into her waking life through a series of eerie encounters. As the story unfolds, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, captivated by Sophie’s interactions with enigmatic new acquaintances and her immersion in ventures that continually blur the lines between reality and the supernatural.
The novel’s settings and characters are intricately portrayed, facilitating a seamless visualization for the reader. The suspense is masterfully crafted, with the vivid descriptions of Sophie’s nightmarish experiences invoking a sense of unease, while simultaneously enticing readers to uncover more. Sophie’s fascination with vintage and antique items adds a unique dimension to the story, weaving seamlessly with the references to various eras and styles throughout the narrative. Bourland’s skillful handling of suspenseful moments is particularly noteworthy; each time Sophie glimpses shadowy figures lurking in her peripheral vision, readers share her disquiet and are compelled to discover the source of her preoccupation. The seamless interplay between suspenseful episodes and Sophie’s daily life generates a gripping momentum that makes the novel difficult to put down. Sophie is a relatable and engaging protagonist whose imperfect life and inner turmoil resonate with readers. As she confronts the mysteries and enigmas that envelop her, Sophie’s resilience is both admirable and inspiring. The central question that emerges is whether Sophie holds the key to unraveling her greatest mysteries and finding peace amidst the chaos.
Hidden Shadow is a thoroughly enjoyable read. Bourland’s fluid writing style sustains reader interest, while the relatable and likable protagonist, Sophie, invites readers to empathize with her plight. In addition, Bourland’s adeptness at rendering vivid characters and settings enhances the novel’s immersive quality, allowing readers to fully experience the tension and suspense that permeate its pages.
Pages: 205 | ASIN : B0BN1WVNJR
Stumble & Fall
Stumble & Fall is the riveting second installment in the A Legacy of Silence series by Amy Rivers. It masterfully delves into the heartrending complexities of shared trauma. Through the dual perspectives of sisters Tilly and Kate, readers are immersed in the harrowing journey of two women who have recently reconnected and bonded over their experiences as victims of sexual assault. Yet, as they unravel the chilling revelation that their suffering may be linked to a broader sexual trafficking ring operating in their seemingly idyllic town, the sisters—Kate, a psychiatrist, and Tilly, a sexual assault nurse examiner—vow to bring the nefarious operation to its knees.
From the outset, Stumble & Fall captivates readers with its emotionally charged narrative and multidimensional characters. Rivers skillfully differentiates Tilly and Kate’s inner struggles and aspirations, crafting a poignant portrayal of their individual approaches to coping with trauma. In doing so, she presents two female protagonists who embody strength and vulnerability equally, making it easy for readers to empathize with their experiences. The novel further delves into the sobering reality of how victims of sexual assault are often inadequately protected by societal institutions.
Tilly and Kate’s professional roles as a nurse and psychiatrists offer potent insights into such violence’s immediate and lasting consequences. Rivers’ candid exploration of these topics and other issues, such as grief and relationship challenges, lends the narrative an air of authenticity and sincerity and champions the cause of victims through her evocative prose. Exploring additional themes, such as grief and relationship tribulations, further enriches the narrative, ensuring a well-rounded and compelling reading experience. Among the numerous captivating elements of the story, the most striking is the tender and supportive relationship between the sisters. Tilly and Kate forge a remarkable bond as they navigate their challenges, creating a nurturing environment that fosters resilience and healing. In addition, the portrayal of Kate’s compassionate demeanor, even amid the violence that permeates their lives, serves as a poignant counterpoint, further highlighting the strength of their connection.
Stumble & Fall is a superb follow-up to an already captivating series. As the A Legacy of Silence series continues establishing its presence in the literary world, readers eagerly anticipate delving deeper into the exciting world Amy Rivers has skillfully crafted.
Pages: 295 | ASIN : B09YKQZSP6
Fangs of Deception
Fangs of Deception by TK Orbelyan follows Carl and his cousin Terry. The family gathers one evening to meet Mia, Carl’s new girlfriend. Carl reveals shocking information he has acquired about the pandemic being meticulously planned and unleashed on the world. The evidence being that big pharma companies began preparations for the vaccine a year before the ‘plandemic’ broke out. Carl intends to not only publish this damning evidence but to follow it up and ensure that it’s not forgotten. When Carl disappears, Terry attempts to track him down, becoming deeply aware of how far a global ‘cabal’ controls governments, finance, and big industries and how thinly veiled the dystopian world is in which countries exist.
The characters are well-developed, each with their own unique voice and motivations. Terry is a particular standout, with his unwavering determination to expose the corruption that plagues the world. The plot is masterfully crafted, with twists and turns that kept me guessing until the end. The revelation that the pandemic was meticulously planned and unleashed on the world by big pharma companies was both shocking and thought-provoking. Orbelyan shows just how insidious the power of big corporations is and how easily the world could tip over into an Orwellian dystopia being controlled by the powerful few. The overall writing is strong, with well-crafted descriptive passages that create a vivid picture of the world the characters inhabit. I did find some sections of the book to be wholly explanatory, and I would have preferred to see these ideas shown rather than told. However, these moments did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Overall, I highly recommend Fangs of Deception to any reader who enjoys dystopian fiction or stories that tackle political and social issues. With its well-developed characters, tightly-knit narrative, and thought-provoking themes, this novella is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.
Pages: 135 | ASIN : B0BST6482W
Never Stop Running
Dr. Melissa Caudle’s Never Stop Running is a captivating novel that follows the life of a woman named Jackie who has experienced multiple lives but struggles to find meaning in her current one. Jackie, a school teacher, embarks on a school trip with her friend Beth and their respective classes. Tragically, the bus driver suffers a heart attack while en route to the museum, resulting in a fatal collision. Unfortunately, Jackie is the only one seriously injured and remains in a coma for several months before waking up with no memories of her past life.
The novel delves into the concept of past lives and regression therapy as Jackie attempts to recall her previous life before the accident by seeking out the source of her trauma. As she grapples with the memories of her past lives, she must also come to terms with her current family, who are strangers to her. Her husband David, mother Margarette, and two young sons, Tyler and Sebastian, one of whom has no recollection of her, add to her struggles.
Whether you believe in the notion of reincarnation or not, Never Stop Running is a mesmerizing tapestry of numerous tales. The book seamlessly weaves together not only the perspectives of the present characters but also those from Jackie’s past lives. The writing style is affected by the era in which the flashbacks occur, making the shifts in the timeline effortless and non-disruptive. Caudle expertly immerses the reader into Jackie’s world with her vivid descriptions and captivating characters.
Never Stop Running is a thrilling work of psychological fiction based on a true story. Readers follow along as Jackie discovers her soul mate in past lives and tries to come to terms with her current life and situation. I wholeheartedly recommend this book, as it is an enthralling and exhilarating read that will keep you engaged until the very end.
Pages: 283 | ASIN : B07MTTRJQK
Secrets In The Mirror
Psychology around twins is a fascinating subject. Identical twins have the same DNA, but what happens when you throw in a domineering father who favors one twin over the other? Treating one twin differently over the other twists their self-confidence and personality, sometimes for the worse. Gavin and Devon are identical mirror twins, which means they’re the opposite of each other, even though they look the same. When Devon looks into a mirror, he sees Gavin. But their twin bond can only take so much strain, right?
Secrets in the Mirror by Leslie Kain is a psychological thriller about a set of twins, Devon and Gavin, and how Devon’s narcissistic personality affects their relationship and their entire family. At first, everyone just believes that Devon is full of himself and has a lot of self-confidence. Still, after a horrific traffic accident, the doctors who treat Devon start to unravel his web of lies, diagnosing him with Narcissistic Personality Disorder. But, of course, Devon doesn’t believe a word of it, and he knows he is superior to everyone, including the doctors.
Gavin has always been Devon’s crutch, and this becomes worse as time goes on. Gavin is expected to clean up after Devon’s misdeeds, but eventually, Gavin realizes that he needs to protect himself from his own twin brother. One truly feels sorry for Gavin and his mother, the story’s victims.
Secrets in the Mirror by Leslie Kain is a fascinating book written from multiple perspectives, including Devon and Gavin. Kain gives readers a look into the twins’ minds through chapters from their point of view. The story takes a while to pick up and can be frustrating to read because of the personality disorders. However, I believe that just shows Kain’s ability to craft compelling characters. I recommend this book to anyone interested in twin psychology, personality disorders, and psychological thrillers.
Pages: 366 | ASIN : B0B34H59Y1
LITERARY TITAN 