Blog Archives
Furniture Sliders – A Max Calder Mystery
Furniture Sliders is a post-war spy-fi romp that kicks off The Bureau Archives Trilogy with a smoky, rain-slicked bang. Set in 1947, it follows Max Calder, a former intelligence officer with holes in his memory, who is pulled back into the shadows by a mysterious woman named Artemis. A cryptic file, a vanished scientist, and a strange device known only as “the Mirror” set the stage for a chase that spans seedy New York bars, crowded transatlantic ships, and the broken glamour of Vienna. The novel threads together espionage, noir atmosphere, and science-fiction intrigue, with time manipulation simmering under its cloak-and-dagger surface.
I loved how this book felt. The writing drips with mood. Fog curling down city streets, cigarette smoke blurring the edges of a room, the distant hum of jazz over clinking glasses. The pacing dances between languid observation and sudden bursts of violence. Bentley’s style pulls you into Max’s fractured mind. We’re not just following a spy, we’re feeling the tug of his half-buried memories and the unease of not knowing which shadows to trust. Sometimes the dialogue leans into pulp, almost like a wink to the genre’s roots, and it works. It kept me grinning even when the stakes turned deadly.
The ideas themselves are a bold mix. The “Mirror” concept, which is a device that remembers rather than reflects, opens the door for paranoia, philosophical tangents, and deliciously weird possibilities. Bentley resists over-explaining it, letting the mystery breathe. The interplay between Artemis and Max is sharp, edged with mutual suspicion and unspoken history. There’s a lot of world-building baked into their exchanges, which I appreciated, though now and then I wanted the plot to lunge forward faster. Still, I was hooked. Even the side characters, like the poison-bead-wielding Bishop, feel like they’ve stepped out of their own fully formed novellas.
Furniture Sliders is a strong start to what promises to be a stylish, time-twisting spy trilogy. It’s a book for readers who love their thrillers with a noir heartbeat, for fans of John le Carré who won’t mind a dash of science fiction, and for anyone who likes peeling back the layers of a protagonist who isn’t even sure of himself. It’s atmospheric, it’s clever, and it leaves you wanting the next mission right away.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0FF6RD921
Reassurance and Belonging
The Backyard Detectives: Operation Family Mystery follows a brother and sister who overhear a secret phone call, and become detectives to uncover what divorce means while holding each other up as their world feels like it is falling apart. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
For this book, I drew deeply from my own childhood. While there are pieces I changed or left out, the heart of the story comes from my personal experiences growing up. I wanted to create the kind of book my younger self desperately needed, something that would have helped me feel seen and less alone.
Divorce can feel like the end of the world for a child, and in the moment, it truly does feel that way. But looking back, I can see that even though it was hard, things did work out, and in some cases, it was even the best thing that could have happened for the kids involved. I wanted to capture that balance of honesty and hope. The story includes not only what I went through but also the words and reassurance I wish someone had given me at the time. My hope is that kids reading it today will feel supported and maybe find a little bit of comfort in knowing they’ll be okay, too.
One thing that stands out in your children’s book is the relationship between siblings Rose and Jacob, not just with each other, but also with their mom and their desire to protect one another. What was your process in writing the characters’ interactions to develop the bond they have?
Even though I grew up as an only child, I knew I wanted this story to highlight the importance of leaning on someone when life feels overwhelming. For some kids, that’s a sibling; for others, it might be a best friend who feels just like family. Either way, having that bond can make a world of difference.
When writing Rose and Jacob, I imagined what my younger self would have needed to hear or say if I’d had a sibling by my side. That made their protectiveness and closeness come naturally in the story. Their bond doesn’t just help them through the divorce, it shapes who they’ll become, making them extra protective of their mom and strengthening their family unit in a new way. In the end, I wanted their relationship to show kids that it’s okay to rely on the people who love you, and that sometimes tough moments can create unbreakable connections.
What were some educational aspects that were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Mental health has always been very important to me, and the older I get, the more I realize how early those struggles can begin. One of the most important lessons I wanted to weave into this book is the message that you are not alone, and there is nothing wrong with you.
So often, kids going through big changes like divorce feel isolated or even blame themselves. I wanted The Backyard Detectives to be a safe place where a child could see their own feelings reflected and know it’s okay to have those emotions. If even one child reads this book and finds comfort in knowing they aren’t the only one, then to me, this story has done its job. That sense of reassurance and belonging is the true educational takeaway I hope every reader carries with them.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?
Yes, Operation Family Mystery is the very first book in The Backyard Detectives series. The second book will follow Rose and Jacob as they face another difficult chapter in life, learning about cancer and coping with grief when their grandfather becomes ill.
While it’s a heavier topic, the story is told with the same mix of heart, hope, and detective fun, giving kids tools to process big feelings while still feeling safe and supported. My goal is to help young readers see that even in sad or scary moments, there can be love, connection, and resilience. This next installment is set to release before the holidays this year, and I can’t wait to share it with families.
For the latest updates on release dates and new projects, you can always visit www.christalmajestic.com.
Author Links: GoodReads | Amazon
In this heartfelt early chapter book for ages 7–10, siblings Rose and Jacob find themselves caught in a mystery they didn’t ask for—but can’t ignore.
After overhearing a late-night phone call, the pair stumbles into a web of hidden photos, whispered secrets, and quiet sadness. Armed with a notebook and their best detective skills, they launch a secret mission to uncover the truth behind the word that turned their world upside down.
Set in a cozy southern town, The Backyard Detectives: Operation Family Mystery is a gentle, emotionally rich story about family change, resilience, and the unshakable bond between siblings. Perfect for children’s bookshelves at home, in the classroom, or in counseling offices.
A comforting story for kids experiencing family change or divorce
Great for fans of sibling adventures, secret missions, and detective tales
Ideal for parents, educators, and therapists helping children process emotions
This realistic fiction chapter book is perfect for:
• Early readers transitioning from picture books
• Families looking for age-appropriate books about divorce
• Kids who love solving mysteries and uncovering clues
• Adults seeking tools to help children navigate big emotions and life transitions
Whether read independently or shared aloud, this moving story reminds young readers that even when families shift, love stays—and courage grows.
Real Life is the Inspiration
Rough Diamond, Rough Justice follows a former professional photographer turned MI5 surveillance agent who winds up in the diamond trade, where killing is not optional; it is the only way to survive. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
Real life experiences was the inspiration. As it says at the beginning of Rough Diamond, Rough Justice: This book is a work of fiction, inspired by several real-life events and real people. Names, characters, incidents, and places are the product of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.
There was a lot of time spent crafting the character traits in this novel. What was the most important factor for you to get right in your characters?
Reality was the most important factor. As it says in Rough Diamond, Rough Justice when Cain was talking to his best friend:
‘We will have to write that book when we retire,’ Cain suggested.
‘All those secrets,’ said Detective Sergeant Jerry Davis (a member of The Royal Protection Team). ‘Perhaps we will.’
In real life, my best friend unexpectedly died, so I wrote our book alone.
I felt that the action scenes were expertly crafted. I find that this is an area that can be overdone in novels. How did you approach this subject to make sure it flowed evenly?
In real life action can only go so far. Seeing too much in movies, TV series – and having a karate black belt – plus a couple of personal experiences helped me craft the action.
Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out and what can your fans expect in the next story?
This is my first book. I have written an initial 40,000 words of a sequel about Cain, set in South Africa & England. Will I finish it? Time will tell.
Recovering from injuries sustained protecting the Royal Family, Cain embraces a new life and romance in sun-drenched Australia, leaving his past life behind.
But when tragedy strikes, he is on the move again. This time to a new career in the world of diamond dealings in Florida.
Curiosity takes Cain to the diamond world in South Africa, where his past finally catches up with him, the criminal world allies against him and he becomes a killer again.
In Cain’s action-packed escapades, a spectacular betrayal takes him into the rigours of a Chinese prison where the truth about his past begins to unravel.
Aided by a loyal band of friends from the shadowy world of intelligence, he delivers his own particular brand of rough justice.
However, with enemies closing in on all sides, will Cain prevail?
The Legend of the Silver Star
The Legend of the Silver Star is a thrilling children’s adventure that follows siblings Gabby and Anthony as they journey through time via a magical pine box in their Aunt Sophie’s attic. Transported to the Old West, they meet legendary U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves and find themselves embroiled in a mission to deliver a dangerous outlaw to justice. Along the way, they encounter blacksmiths, bandits, cattle rustlers, and a caring Chickasaw community, learning valuable lessons about bravery, honesty, and the power of standing up for what’s right. Full of charm, danger, and heart, the story weaves together history and fantasy into a compelling ride.
The book is written with such energy and warmth, and the pacing is spot-on. The dialogue feels real, the characters are instantly likable, and there’s a lot of clever humor woven in. Gabby, with her sharp wit and fearless spirit, is an absolute standout. And Bass Reeves? What a figure. He’s cool, wise, and full of grit. The writing isn’t flowery or complex, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s punchy and clear, the kind that makes young readers sit up and hang on every word. The story moves quickly but never feels rushed. It’s adventurous without being scary, smart without being preachy.
I enjoyed the depth packed into this short book. It introduces big ideas like racism, justice, and courage, without ever feeling heavy. There’s a real tenderness in how the story handles fear, responsibility, and teamwork. I found myself grinning at the kids’ antics one moment and getting choked up the next. The way the book highlights Bass Reeves, a historical figure often overlooked, is powerful. I felt genuinely moved by the ending, especially the moment with the silver stars. That got me.
This book is a gem. I’d recommend it to kids in upper elementary grades, especially those who love action, history, or stories with gutsy young heroes. It’s also a great read-aloud for classrooms or families. There’s something magical about how it mixes real history with fantasy. I walked away from it not just entertained, but inspired. If you’re looking for a story that makes kids feel brave and seen, this one’s for you.
Pages: 101 | ISBN : 1959110136
Kid Pharaoh
The Secret Key Adventures: The Kid Pharaoh is a time-traveling adventure that follows siblings Anthony and Gabby as they stumble into ancient Egypt via a mysterious special key gifted by their eccentric Aunt Sophie. They meet the young Tutankhaten, soon to be King Tut, and after an uncanny resemblance between Anthony and the boy pharaoh, a classic switcheroo sets off a chain of risky encounters, political intrigue, and personal growth. The story combines humor, suspense, and history in a fast-paced narrative packed with colorful characters, vivid settings, and plenty of heart.
What struck me first was how fun this book is to read. It’s loaded with personality. Anthony’s wide-eyed curiosity and Gabby’s razor-sharp wit make for a perfect sibling duo. Their banter felt real and funny. I was especially charmed by Tut himself. He’s playful, burdened, and a little rebellious, which makes him relatable. I didn’t expect to laugh, but moments like the ostrich egg breakfast or Tut’s street market blunders genuinely cracked me up. The pacing is brisk without feeling rushed, and the short chapters kept me flipping pages. The language is simple and accessible, but never dumbed-down. It’s the kind of storytelling that respects its young audience.
The book surprised me with how layered it is. Behind all the comedy and chariot chases, there’s a thoughtful message about responsibility and leadership. Anthony starts off wanting adventure, only to realize that being Pharaoh means more than parades and fancy clothes. Gabby’s arc was especially powerful. Her experience as a servant opens her eyes to inequality and unfairness, and she comes out stronger for it. The villain, Baki, is just the right amount of creepy without being cartoonish. The tension builds slowly, and the final scenes had me holding my breath. There’s also a real emotional payoff at the end.
The Kid Pharaoh is a total win. It blends imagination and history in a way that feels fresh and exciting. Young readers who love adventure, history, or sibling hijinks will have a great time reading this book. But honestly, even as an adult, I had a blast with it. This book would be perfect for middle-grade readers, classrooms studying ancient civilizations, or any kid who dreams of opening a secret door and ending up somewhere wild. It’s clever, heartfelt, and just plain fun.
Pages: 102 | ISBN : 1959110039
Rough Diamond Rough Justice
Avien Gray’s Rough Diamond, Rough Justice is a gritty and cinematic thriller that follows Cain, a former professional photographer turned MI5 surveillance agent, as he navigates a world of espionage, betrayal, and violence. Starting in early 1990s Britain, where the digital world had yet to take over, the story opens with a stakeout gone wrong and spirals into a bloody encounter that sees Cain commit his first kill. What follows is his slow, reluctant descent into a covert government agency known as the Bureau, an off-the-books group tasked with eliminating threats to national security. Alongside his best friend Jerry, a member of the Royal Protection Team, Cain undergoes a transformation from observer to executioner, trading in his camera lens for a Beretta.
I enjoyed the writing style. It’s punchy and full of swagger, packed with banter, dry wit, and sharp observations. The dialogue pops. There’s a real rhythm to it, almost like watching a well-rehearsed play where the pauses and timing matter just as much as the lines. The early scenes between Cain and Jerry crackle with believable camaraderie. I felt like I was eavesdropping on two lifelong mates who’d seen far too much and still managed to laugh at life’s mess. And the pacing was great as well. It hits the gas early and never really lets up. Even the quieter moments carry a tension, like something’s about to go sideways. And often, it does.
But it’s not just the action that carries the weight. The book dives deep into moral gray areas like what it means to kill, how one justifies it, and what’s left behind after the blood dries. Cain isn’t a gung-ho hero. He’s thoughtful, even reluctant, but deadly when pushed. His reflections after his first kill, mixed with dark humor and flashes of raw honesty, got under my skin. I found myself rooting for him and questioning him at the same time. That tension between duty and humanity gave the story its real punch. I also appreciated the nostalgic backdrop. The pre-digital details, the analog grit. It grounded everything in a tangible, almost tactile realism.
Rough Diamond, Rough Justice is a fierce and memorable read across the world. In Britain, Australia, the United States, South Africa, and a Chinese prison in 2005. It blends old-school spy grit with a modern sense of psychological depth. I’d recommend it to fans of The Spy Who Came In from the Cold who don’t mind a bit more blood and banter, or anyone who enjoys fast-paced thrillers with brains. If you like your action served with sharp edges and a stiff drink, this one’s for you.
Rough Diamond, Rough Justice is a recipient of the Literary Titan Book Award.
Pages: 516 | ASIN : B0DDW2C1XP
The Secret of the Magic eyePad: Putney Hicks Inventor Adventures–Book 1
The Secret of the Magic eyePad: Putney Hicks Inventor Adventures, by Marsha Tuff, presents an engaging story about Putney Hicks, a young and socially awkward girl navigating the complexities of middle school within the unfamiliar terrain of a prestigious STEM academy. Set against the backdrop of a school populated by students from diverse backgrounds and higher social classes, the narrative deftly explores Putney’s internal struggles with self-doubt and social anxiety as she adjusts to this new, high-pressure environment. The plot takes a fascinating turn with the introduction of a mysterious gadget—a sentient and quirky artificial intelligence known as the “eyePad.” This twist propels Putney into a whirlwind of unexpected adventures, blending mystery and innovation in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Marsha Tuff skillfully intertwines middle school drama with elements of mystery and adventure, creating a delightful tapestry of characters and scenarios that captivate the reader. Putney’s journey is particularly compelling, as she emerges as a resilient and inspiring young inventor. Her character resonates strongly with readers, offering a portrayal of a young female protagonist who is both well-crafted and relatable.
The book’s charm lies in its ability to weave a story reminiscent of classic tales like Nancy Drew while infusing it with modern scientific and technological elements. This blend not only entertains but also educates, making the story a valuable read for young audiences. The narrative’s creativity, excellent writing, and inspiring messages stand out, providing lessons in perseverance and self-discovery. Furthermore, Putney Hicks serves as an exceptional role model for young girls and women aspiring to excel in STEM fields. Her character demonstrates that not only can they succeed in such areas, but they can also thrive and lead. This novel is a refreshing addition to the genre, offering both enjoyment and empowerment.
The Secret of the Magic eyePad is a captivating read that I thoroughly enjoyed. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in Putney Hicks’ adventures.
Pages: 232 | ASIN : B0B1LBXGJ9
The Forgotten Treasure
Isabel Ricardo’s The Forgotten Treasure is an enchanting fantasy novel inspired by captivating myths and folklore. Set within a treasure hunt, the story uncovers a wealth that transcends mere material worth and delves into the realm of profound knowledge. This pursuit spans multiple sects and kingdoms, traversing the vast tapestry of time itself. Presently, a group of enterprising young individuals, Mike, Kelly, Sarah, and Andy, find themselves entrusted with a clue that leads them through the hallowed halls of museums and monuments, beckoning them ever closer to the final treasure. Yet, even they remain blissfully unaware of the intricacies unfolding around them.
The author crafts a narrative that seamlessly integrates explanations for the events taking place by deftly weaving together historical facts, fiction, and mythical elements. The prose flows with elegance and clarity, captivating readers with its fluidity. I was entranced by the author’s skillful employment of evocative phrases on numerous occasions. The book’s relentless pace, replete with daring escapes and perilous predicaments, imbues the entire adventure with an exhilarating, spine-tingling quality. Notably, the interactions between the young protagonists and their unwavering dedication to their quest are truly commendable. Throughout the story, an ever-present allusion to “The Lusiads,” an epic poem by Portuguese poet Luis Vaz de Camoes, lends an additional layer of depth and richness. The manner in which the narrative unfolds, gradually unveiling the arduous and protracted journey in search of the forgotten treasure, greatly appealed to me. The unexpected twists and turns along the way ensured a consistently engrossing read. Nevertheless, it should be acknowledged that, on occasion, certain actions displayed a degree of predictability. Furthermore, while exploring the intricate tapestry of historical facts and references within the narrative, I discovered the need for supplementary research to fully grasp their profound significance.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Forgotten Treasure to avid readers who relish fictional works grounded in the realities of life. This book will undoubtedly captivate adventure seekers and mystery enthusiasts alike, piquing their curiosity with its tantalizing blend of excitement and enigma.
Pages: 316 | ISBN : 1949868923
