Blog Archives
The Wish
Lena Gibson’s The Wish elegantly melds the thrilling with the emotional, taking readers on a time-traveling journey that is as suspenseful as it is moving. After a heart-wrenching accident leaves Elizabeth mute for two years, a fervent wish catapults her from 2022 back to 2017. As she unravels her past and confronts the haunting reasons behind her boyfriend’s coma, she finds an unlikely ally in his enigmatic brother. Yet, as her wish is granted, a lurking threat in the form of a stalker casts a shadow on her newfound chance at happiness.
Gibson masterfully narrates the tale across two timelines without missing a beat, offering readers a seamless experience anchoring them to each page. Her cast of characters, from the introspective Elizabeth to the intriguing Christopher, is both rich and varied, ensuring that every reader finds someone to resonate with.
Beyond the engrossing plot laden with unexpected twists, Gibson’s storytelling prowess shines through in her exquisite first-person narrative and evocative descriptions, painting a vivid tapestry in the reader’s mind.
More than just a gripping read, The Wish imparts valuable lessons through Elizabeth’s remarkable character arc, showcasing her resilience and growth in the face of adversity. With its exploration of poignant themes such as loss, abusive relationships, and profound tragedy, the novel offers depth that touches the soul.
In The Wish, Lena Gibson elevates the time-travel genre, crafting a literary gem that is both captivating and thought-provoking.
Pages: 381 | ASIN : B0C3W258HS
Depths and Endless Possibilities
Song for Someone follows a young woman who, through her parents’ diaries, discovers the love story of an opera singer and the mysterious detective Sherlock Holmes. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was inspired to write my debut novel, Song for Someone, after visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum on Baker Street in 2019. I remember it was just before lockdown. I had always been fascinated by the iconic character Irene Adler and felt disappointed when she failed to appear in any further episodes after A Scandal in Bohemia. Other authors have hinted at a relationship between Holmes and Adler but merely skirted around the subject without exploring its depths and endless possibilities. So encouraged by my daughter Katie, I decided to write my adaptation.
Both Irene and Holmes are well-written and developed characters with engaging personalities. What was your favorite character to write for and why? Was there a scene you felt captured the character’s essence?
Irene was my favourite character to write; I loved exploring the depths of her character, this strong, feisty woman who took no messing from the celebrated detective. My favourite chapter in the book is No. 27, where Irene and Sherlock discuss past relationships. Those scenes really captured the character’s essence and changed the dynamics of their relationship.
Through the diary pages, Charlotte is taken on an adventure to discover her parent’s secret lives. How do you balance story development with shocking plot twists? Or can they be the same thing?
Story development can coincide with shocking plot twists. I’m a panster writer, and ideas tend to come to me as I go along; it can, at times, involve a lot of re-writing for me this way, but, the plot and dialogue flow much better.
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?
Christmas at The Saporis, Book Two in the Sherlock Holmes and Irene Adler Mysteries, was published last December. The story will take readers to the beautiful Susses Downs five years after Sherlock and Irene’s adventures in Italy. Irene is hoping for a quiet family Christmas and a reconciliation with Sherlock’s brother, Mycroft. All appears well until unexpected ghosts from the past appear, threatening to shatter the fragile peace of the holidays, reminding readers that happiness and harmony are never guaranteed, even during the festive period.
Meet Me in Milan, Book 3 in the series, will be published on the 29th of September, and takes our intrepid couple back to Milan, where Irene finds herself having to turn investigator when her friend Renata becomes the main suspect in the attempted murder of her husband, Luigi Amato. When Sherlock finally arrives on the scene, Irene seeks his counsel, and he agrees to help with her investigation. But, in doing so, they open up a can of worms in their quest for the truth, which leaves them questioning their relationship and everything they hold dear.
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Charlotte Sapori has led a wonderful life, safely tucked in the bosom of her family. Her mother, Irene Adler, is a renowned opera singer, while her father, Lucca Sapori, does important government work that frequently takes him away from them. Charlotte is close to her older brother, Nicco, and they are both doted on by their parents. All is well until her mother receives an unexpected diagnosis which shakes the family to its core.
Knowing herself to be dying, Adler confesses to Charlotte things that have long been kept from her, telling her to find and read her diary. A distressed Lucca Sapori tells his daughter to read his as well. And by the way, Lucca Sapori is not his real name. In fact, she may have heard of him—he is actually the world-famous detective, Sherlock Holmes.
Charlotte finds both diaries and plunges into the hidden world of Irene Adler and Sherlock Holmes as she discovers what brought them together, and how they managed to stay together for thirty years despite having to battle the odds.
High on a Mountain
Bella Anderson, a recently retired university professor now facing the somber reality of widowhood, begins a new phase of life in the picturesque and tranquil setting of the Smoky Mountains. Inheriting her family’s charming cabin, she anticipates a peaceful existence, a gentle retirement amid the splendor of nature. This idyllic vision is shattered, however, when unexpected events thrust her into a world of crime, action, and danger, turning her once-peaceful haven into a foreboding landscape that challenges her in unexpected ways.
In High on a Mountain, author Jacque Jacobs crafts a thrilling novel that transcends traditional cabin mysteries by introducing innovative and compelling narrative techniques. The book’s opening sequence presents a colorful cast of characters, each entering the story in a way that engages the reader. This skillful orchestration creates a rich social backdrop that becomes an integral part of the plot’s intricate fabric.
Though the diversity of characters might at first seem jarring, Jacobs’s decision to spotlight figures such as a professor, a grocery store owner, and a sheriff is inspired. Each of these characters plays a vital role in the unfolding drama, and Jacobs’s deft handling ensures that all major players have a distinct voice, allowing readers an all-encompassing view of the narrative. This approach maintains the suspense without prematurely revealing the story’s secrets.
The thoughtful pace at which the mystery unravels allows readers ample time for reflection and connection with the plot’s complexities. Jacobs’s prose is finely tuned, avoiding the pitfall of stretching the story thin and risking tedium. Instead, the deliberate structure builds to a satisfying climax, providing a richly deserved payoff that leaves readers eager for more.
High on a Mountain is a wonderfully balanced novel, bringing together elements of mystery, adventure, and serenity within its pages. It is a must-read for fans of isolated mysteries and crime fiction.
Pages: 285 | ASIN : B09CG219H5
Song for Someone
Song for Someone by KD Sherrinford is a captivating historical romance set against the vivid backdrop of Victorian London. It masterfully unveils a clandestine affair between the enchanting opera singer Irene Adler and the illustrious detective Sherlock Holmes. When a sinister murder claims Irene’s husband, their worlds collide, compelling them to seek refuge on a Tuscany farm. Posing as a married couple, they craftily evade a relentless criminal on their trail.
Initially, Irene perceives Sherlock as aloof and detached. However, as the story unfolds, their dynamic evolves, leaving readers in suspense: Will their burgeoning emotions culminate in lasting affection? Will external threats snuff out their budding romance?
I was entranced by Sherrinford’s skilled narrative, interspersing suspense with the nuanced complexities of the protagonists’ relationship. The author demonstrates a deep reverence for Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic character, Sherlock Holmes while infusing originality that renders this tale distinctively hers. Irene Adler, portrayed as both a quintessential Victorian lady and a character of strength and depth, is particularly commendable. She strikes a balance between historical authenticity and contemporary relevance.
I think a minor critique lies in the occasional bits of dialogue that feel out of place. For instance, Irene’s remark about men faking relationships feels more at home in a contemporary magazine than in the parlors of Victorian England. Nonetheless, such instances are few and don’t overshadow the novel’s authenticity.
Song for Someone is a delightful blend of historical romance and crime thriller, making it an enticing read for those who appreciate a love story with an edge of mystery.
Pages: 363 | ASIN : B0BN125X8R
Curse: A Novel
Curse by Christina Maraziotis, the second installment of the Loveletting series, immerses readers in a mesmerizing and captivating tale that will leave them yearning for more. Within the pages of this book, a blend of romance, danger, and adventure awaits. Having faced the depths of despair and grappled with profound loss and grief, Charlotte discovers solace in Jesse McCoy’s tender and loyal embrace. While evading the law for crimes she has been unjustly accused of, Charlotte finds herself entangled in a web of enigmatic figures as the search for the elusive serial killer, Mac Kinnon, persists. Amidst the unsettling supernatural occurrences that unsettle Charlotte’s sense of identity and security, Jesse’s steadfast nature becomes a beacon of hope, allowing her to heal and rediscover the joys of life. As unexpected romance blossoms and her freedom is put to the test, Charlotte traverses a path that unravels the true essence of love. However, lurking behind captivating and mysterious faces lies a darkness threatening to corrupt even the purest of souls, transforming them into unrecognizable beings, yearning to reclaim their former selves.
From the very outset, Curse shows immense promise. The author’s skillful writing and thoughtful structure transform what could be an intricate and protracted narrative into a series of concise, well-crafted chapters. This approach enables the plot to breathe and seamlessly engross the reader in an immersive experience. Once engrossed in the story, one is transported to a new world where the narrative and its characters take center stage. The book’s length is justified, as it adds depth and complexity to the overarching storyline, allowing for fully realized character arcs that embody the true nature of each individual and the myriad challenges they face.
Passion, romance, and darkness intertwine throughout the narrative, with supernatural elements deftly woven into the fabric of the plot, heightening its mystery. This narrative technique captivates the reader, holding their attention steadfastly throughout, even during quieter moments. However, the true strength of this book lies in its characters. They are flawlessly imperfect, each possessing a depth and complexity that authentically reflects the human experience and its trials. Engaging and diverse, these characters form a vibrant tapestry of personalities and emotions, with their highs and lows.
Curse by Christina Maraziotis is an entrancing and spellbinding book that transports readers to a realm brimming with mystery and passion, reminding us that amidst the darkest shadows, true beauty can still be discovered.
Pages: 879 | ASIN : B0BVQHGTBC
The Skin Thief
The Skin Thief, a thrilling work of fiction with paranormal elements by T.E. MacArthur, follows the story of Agent X138, an intelligence operative for the Athenaeum Intelligence Agency. X138 embarks on a mission to determine the fate of two missing agents in Southwest Colorado. At night, he ventures into the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa de Los Muertos and mysteriously vanishes. Agent Tessa Wells-Lancing is subsequently dispatched to continue the investigation. Determined to succeed, she enlists the help of a man from her past who is not affiliated with the agency. Together, Tessa and Jack endeavor to uncover the truth behind the strange occurrences on the mesa. Is there really a supernatural force responsible for the deaths of the agents, or is there a more mundane human explanation?
The author’s writing style in The Skin Thief is exceptional. It captivated me from the opening line, “Agent X138 refused to believe in ghosts, despite the gnawing premonition he was about to become one of them.” The vivid descriptions, particularly of the eerie settings, allowed me to visualize myself in the character’s shoes, and the suspenseful plot kept me engaged throughout the book. I enjoyed piecing together the mystery and attempting to unravel it before the characters did. Moreover, the book’s inclusion of the history of the ancient native people who inhabited the Southwest desert thousands of years ago was a nice touch. The interactions between Tessa and Jack were fascinating, and I appreciated the scenes in which they worked together. Nevertheless, the book left a few unanswered questions, which I hope will be addressed in a sequel featuring Tessa and Jack as partners investigating a new case. The twist at the end of the book, which I failed to predict, was a pleasant surprise. However, the twist resulted in some plot holes in the story, and some events earlier in the book did not align with this new reality.
Overall, The Skin Thief is an entertaining paranormal thriller that will keep readers hooked until the end. With moments of suspense and romance, there is something in this gripping novel for everyone.
Pages: 368 | ASIN : B0BWK45577
Marked as Queen of Hearts
Marked as Queen of Hearts is an enthralling romantic suspense novel by acclaimed author Blye Donovan, marking the fifth book in her renowned Rolling Brook series. The novel presents an intriguing second-chance romance set in a small town, making it a captivating read for lovers of the genre. The book features the talented crime fiction author Tori Graham, who returns to her hometown in Illinois from California to seek the assistance of her former flame, Captain Rafe Alonso. Rafe has relocated from Chicago to take up a new position as the small town’s police captain. However, a case from his past continues to plague him, and his path crosses once again with his ex-girlfriend, whom he hasn’t seen in ten years. As a new case surfaces, with eerie resemblances to the previous Suit of Hearts Slasher serial killer case, the question arises, could this be a copycat killer, or did Rafe send the wrong man to jail for the previous murders? The book builds an air of mystery and suspense as readers are left to uncover the killer’s true identity.
The author skillfully weaves in several hints about Tori and Rafe’s past relationship in the book’s early stages, compelling readers to continue reading to find out what went wrong between them. The pairing of a crime fiction writer and a police captain is clever, and the author does a fantastic job of taking the reader on a thrilling ride. I liked the two together, and I wished Tori had played a more substantial role in the investigation, collaborating with Rafe to piece together the clues. Nevertheless, the author crafted a thrilling story that hooked me from start to finish. Rafe’s anger issues were a concerning element at times, but they added depth to his character and made him more relatable to readers. In addition, the author took the time to incorporate vivid descriptions of Rolling Brook’s charming small-town setting, immersing the reader in the story. The story’s pace picks up as the reader learns more about the people and town, and an air of mystery and suspense builds throughout the story, keeping me engaged.
Marked as Queen of Hearts is a captivating romantic suspense novel that will have readers on the edge of their seats. Donovan’s masterful storytelling and engaging characters make it a must-read for fans of the genre.
Pages: 290 | ASIN : B0BTQ5KFDC
The Witness Affair
The Witness Affair by E T McNamara is a riveting criminal suspense novel that follows a young woman named Susan as she travels to New York City to settle her inheritance. While trying to save her home and farm back in Iowa, she encounters more trouble than she could have ever anticipated. Unbeknownst to her, a conspiracy is unfolding in the city, and she finds herself inadvertently caught up in a crime ring that turns her dreams into nightmares. Along the way, she meets NYPD detective Sean Harris, and as they work together to solve the mystery, love begins to blossom. However, death is never far behind, and the question remains – can love save her?
Author E T McNamara does an exceptional job of transporting readers to the vibrant and bustling streets of New York City. The plotline is captivating and action-packed, making it a true page-turner that genre fans will enjoy. In addition, the descriptive details create an immersive atmosphere. Readers will feel the suspense building and remain on edge till they discover what is happening and why.
The novel is straightforward, without many side plots or unnecessary filler. The author skillfully balances the romantic and suspenseful elements of the story. The development of Susan and Sean’s relationship is a testament to the author’s thoughtfulness in crafting well-rounded characters. While some characters could benefit from greater emotional complexity, the author does an admirable job of exploring supporting characters like Franklyn in greater detail.
The Witness Affair by E T McNamara is a well-crafted romantic suspense novel that has all the elements of a memorable read. The story’s engaging characters, interesting plot, and well-crafted suspense will undoubtedly leave readers on the edge of their seats.
Pages: 366 | ASIN : B0BWWYB1R1
LITERARY TITAN 