Tag: author anthony avina

Exposed: A Circle of the Red Lily Novel Book 1 by Anna J. Stewart Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A Hollywood photographer with trust issues in authority and a detective who happens to be the police commissioner’s son stumbles upon a mystery involving photos of a dead woman, a notorious murder conviction, and a secret society that will do anything to maintain its deadly control over the Hollywood Elite in author Anna J. Stewart’s “Exposed: A Circle of the Red Lily Novel”. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Working as a Hollywood photographer means Riley Temple has seen it all. But then she finds herself staring at the chilling image of a dead woman. When her questions about the film lead to violence, she reluctantly turns to the only person who can help. Detective Quinn Burton, the police commissioner’s son. Her history with the LAPD is complicated, her trust in authority, tenuous. But to find those responsible and protect those closest to her, she’s willing to do anything. Even trust a cop.

After more than a decade on the job, Quinn knows a dangerous situation when he sees it and Riley Temple is up to her ears in trouble. But not for the reason she thinks. The pictures she’s stumbled on call into a question a notorious murder conviction—one that powerful people have a vested interest in keeping in place. Seeing this case through means betraying someone: his job, his family, or the woman he’s falling in love with.

As old secrets are revealed, Quinn and Riley find themselves targeted by members of a secret society that has long maintained violent control over Hollywood’s powerful elite. A society that, until now, has remained hidden in the shadows. A society that will stop at nothing to keep their secrets buried.

The Review

I was instantly enthralled by this novel. The author does an incredible job of balancing out the romance with the suspense thriller aspect of the narrative. The way the author delves into the fabric of old Hollywood meeting a modern-day setting was so fascinating, as it allowed the characters to get lost in the glitz and glamor that was old Hollywood while confronting the seedy underbelly of the powerful elite that has always ruled the town. 

The chilling and haunting nature of the narrative and the people behind the horrific murders that the story all elevated the rich character dynamics at play between the protagonists and the atmosphere that was built up. The way the author explores a modern-day Hollywood photographer in a way that adds heart and depth to their backstory and their personality as a whole was refreshing, as most stories portray these characters as sleazy or opportunistic. The emotional connection that forms between Quinn and Riley is great to see, and the connection to the greater world around them allows the tension to build not only between them but the greater setting as well.

The Verdict

Haunting, engaging, and thrilling, author Ann J. Stewart’s “Exposed” is a must-read romantic suspense thriller and a great introduction to the author’s Circle of the Red Lily series. The twists and turns that this narrative takes and the cliffhanger final pages will keep readers hanging onto the author’s every word. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Award-winning, USA Today and national bestselling author Anna J Stewart writes sweet to sexy romances for Harlequin and ARC Manor’s CAEZIK (Kay-Zehk) Romance. Her sweet Harlequin Heartwarming books include the Butterfly Harbor series as well as the ongoing Blackwell continuity series. She also writes the Honor Bound series for Harlequin Romantic Suspense and has contributed to the bestselling Coltons. Her Circle of the Red Lily romantic suspense series, published by CAEZIK, will launch with EXPOSED in November of 2022.

A Holt Medallion winner (BRIDE ON THE RUN), as well as a Golden Heart, Daphne DuMaurier, and National Reader’s Choice finalist, Anna loves writing big community stories where family found is always the theme. Since her first published novella with Harlequin in 2014, Anna has released more than fifty novels and novellas and hopes to branch out even more (horror romance, anyone?). Anna lives in Northern California where (at the best times) she loves going to the movies, attending fan conventions, and heading to Disneyland, her favorite place on earth. When she’s not writing, she is usually binge-watching her newest TV addiction, re-watching her all-time favorite show, Supernatural, and wrangling two monstrous cats named Rosie and Sherlock. Visit Anna online at www.AuthorAnnaStewart.com and sign up for her newsletter (giveaways in every issue!).

SYMUTAL by Dean Alexandrou Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A young hacker hired to update security for a private company in the future must battle government agents as the world heads towards the point of no return and the arrival of the Algorithm Singularity in author Dean Alexandrou’s “SYMUTAL”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

“The ping of the oven cut like a shard of glass through brain tissue, tearing apart the cloth of melancholia that she wore like a hood.”

The year is 2057. In one month humanity will have passed the point of no return – the Algorithm Singularity. Automated systems that run society will have cast a net too tight to break free from. As the singularity approaches, Omicore becomes the first private company to build a server farm on the Moon, out of reach of terrestrial interference.

“The counter response from a system too complex for us to understand will be both unpredictable and deadly.”

Page, a socially awkward but prodigal hacker is hired by Omicore to work on their next generation security, using a new form of simulated consciousness. When government agents try to shut the company down the unfinished research is the only thing standing in their way, and must fight back for all of humanity.

“Nothing is legal when it challenges the authority of those who make the laws.”

The Review

This was a compelling and gripping sci-fi thriller. The author does a fantastic job of touching upon the theme of the dangers of A.I. and the harm that can come with allowing the technology to advance without any laws or supervision, and the problems that can come with automating every aspect of our lives. The real dangers that technology has gone unchecked can have on everyday life is perfectly illustrated in the opening chapter of the book, showing how the lack of human emotion or empathy can leave a cold and calculating worldview that doesn’t allow for room to grow, and punishes people for possibilities rather than actual misdeeds.

The imagery and tension the author built were perfectly captured in the cold settings and a detailed look at the process of programming and coding, let alone the technology behind A.I. and automated systems in general. The character development balanced the detached technology aspect of the narrative and gave readers an emotional investment in the story as the fight for humanity truly began, even amongst themselves.

The Verdict

Memorable, action-packed, and engaging, author Dean Alexandrou’s “SYMUTAL” is a must-read sci-fi thriller of 2023! The twists and turns in the narrative, the shocking fates of the characters, and the emphasis the author puts on both the possibility and the dangers of A.I. made this story flow smoothly and kept me enraptured with the narrative until the book’s final page. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

I was born in Dubai UAE, moved to England when I was 5, and grew up in London. Currently I live in Bangkok Thailand with my girlfriend. My background has been a mix of different careers and locations, with a lot of technology roles (I have spent a lot of time as a programmer, and digital nomad), and have also had a few forays into the entertainment industry. Suffice to say I find it difficult to completely categorise myself in any normal, sensible way!

Much of this contrasting medley of places manifests itself through my writing, and will be apparent in the book Symutal, whose story is interwoven between Earth, the Moon, and virtual reality, but with a strong interlinking storyline. It is speculative, dystopian fiction, but with occasional scenes borrowed from my own experiences.

OWI Blog Tour: Rewriting the Rules by Steven D. Brewer (Guest Post and Tour)

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, Guest PostLeave a comment

The Origin of Revin’s Heart

Rewriting the Rules is the final novelette of Revin’s Heart, my steampunky fantasy adventure with pirates and airships and a trans protagonist, available on June 23 from Water Dragon Publishing.

When I started writing what became The Third Time’s the Charm (the first part of Revin’s Heart), I had published several works of speculative fiction with queer and non-binary characters, but all in Esperanto. Charm was the among the first works I tried to publish in English.

I had a lot of big ideas when I wrote it. It clocked in at around 5000 words — pretty long for a short story. But when my beta readers looked at it they said it didn’t really work as a story. It was exciting, but the ending didn’t really resolve the problems that were raised. I came to realize that I had written (and for a long time tended to write) the first chapters of a book, not a story in itself.

This was in 2004. 

A lot of things happened. I put down fiction writing for a few years. But during the pandemic, I started writing again. I wrote a bunch of other stuff, but I still remembered Charm and wanted to finish what I had started. With what I had learned in the interim. I pulled the manuscript back out, blew off the dust, and began revising. I simplified what was there, and added a story arc that could be resolved with a few thousand more words. The final manuscript clocked in at 8000 words. The larger story was still there, implicit in where the story stopped. But what was left, told a single, coherent story with a satisfying resolution. 

I had been submitting my new stories all summer while I, little-by-little, worked my way through revising Charm. But I had only stacked up a respectable list of rejections thus far. When I attended Readercon, I met with the managing editor from Water Dragon Publishing who mentioned a “Dragon Gems” program that accepted novelettes. I had just wrapped up my revisions and hadn’t yet found another venue for submitting it, so I sent it off to them. The story got good reviews and was accepted for publication. My debut work!!

I was encouraged enough that, when I had free time to write again, I started working on a sequel and shared my interest in writing a series of novelettes to tell the rest of the story. After some discussion, the editor offered me the opportunity to publish the rest of the story over the course of the following year. As a new author, I was ignorant of how monumental an offer this was to make to a new, untried writer. But I leapt at the chance and, over the following three months, I wrote the rest of the novelettes. 

It’s been a fascinating journey for me as a new author. And a wonderful learning experience. In addition to the seven novelettes, I’ve also written several side stories that are told from the viewpoints of other characters. These will be collected together and published with a “fix-up” novel that will include all of the novelettes, somewhat revised and expanded. And I’ve written a follow-on novella that I hope to publish in the future. 

Revin and his compatriots have become an essential part of my life. I think about him and what’s happening to him nearly every day. I hope you will let him into your heart too and follow his adventures. 

Rewriting the Rules - Steven D. Brewer

Steven D. Brewer has a new queer steampunk book out (trans, gay): Rewriting the Rules. And there’s a giveaway.

When peace is no longer possible, one must either go to war or run away.

Abandoned by the nobility, everything goes wrong for Revin and he makes a run for it, ready to give up all hope. But when confronted with the choice he must make, will his heart lead him true?

Warnings: violence.

About the Series

Revin, a young man from a poor mining town, has pulled himself up by his bootstraps to become the student apprentice of a law professor. But then, everything goes wrong: their airship is captured by pirates and Revin loses his mentor. Born female, Revin must make his way in a world oriented toward men while he struggles with his own identity.

Set against the backdrop of a war between island nations, Revin must navigate a world divided between the aristocracy and the common people. And, as a promising young man, he must choose whom to align himself with — and to serve. But what does Revin’s Heart say?

Universal Buy Link

Giveaway

Steven is giving away a $10 Water Dragon Publishing gift card with this tour:

a Rafflecopter giveawayhttps://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js

Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47287/?

Excerpt

The Queen of Belleriand approached the coast of Havelock in the pre-dawn hours at a high altitude and then turned to skirt the coast. Grip cranked down the ramp while Will helped Revin strap himself into the glider.

“Unassisted, you should have no problem reaching the coast,” Will said. “But even a small towline will probably be enough to keep you aloft until the city.”

“And you’ll be ready?” Revin asked.

“As soon as the Baron launches the assault, we will watch for your signal.”

With this assurance, Will gave Revin a pat on the shoulder and helped him out onto the ramp. Revin had worn two extra shirts for some extra insulation, but was still shivering, though not entirely from the cold. He was familiar with heights having been on airships many times. But jumping off of them was something else altogether. He pulled out the monocle he had gotten from Will and fixed it over his eye. Then, taking a deep breath, he took a running start and leapt off the ramp into open air.

At first, he panicked when it felt like he was going straight down. He struggled to get his feet up into the supports, heart racing. But once he’d picked up a little speed, he felt the glider start to gain lift and the dive flattened out into a long glide.

With the monocle, he studied the etheric flows and made an attachment to a strong flow going the right direction. He felt the glider pick up speed and it actually started to climb! He grew increasingly confident as he overflew the coast.

He had chosen to approach the city from the East, to stay well clear of the aerodrome, but it meant approaching the city from an unfamiliar direction. He strained his eyes trying to look for familiar landmarks and trying to spot Lidja’s apartment building. He was practically straight above it when he finally recognized it. He panicked for a moment feeling like he’d missed his chance. But then he just cut the towline and began turning lazy circles, dumping altitude, until he was just above the rooftops.

The building with Lidja’s apartment had a mansard roof and looked forbidding to land on. But the adjacent building had a large, long flat roof. Revin lined himself up, then realized, with the wind behind him, he was going too fast and would overshoot the building. In a panic, with the roof of Lidja’s apartment rushing at him, he found another etheric stream, and made the biggest towline he could. He squeezed his eyes shut as he started to climb and just barely cleared the roof. He climbed for a few minutes, then cut the line and looped back for another try. Heading into the wind this time, he lined up well in advance of the roof and judged the height better. As he cleared Lydia’s roof, he dropped his feet out of the supports and touched down at a run. He almost lost his balance and nearly tumbled, but just managed to stay on his feet and bring the glider to a stop. He had never wanted to kiss the ground more.

After he unstrapped himself, he ran to the edge of the building and, looking down a few feet, identified the window of Lidja’s bedroom. He pulled a few copper bits out of his pocket and threw one against her window. And then another and another, until he saw she was opening the window to look out and see what was going on. She looked up and caught sight of Revin and her face broke into a huge smile.

“Revin!” she squealed. “What are you doing here?”

“May I come in?”

“Yes, of course!”

Revin sprang across the narrow gap between the buildings and scrambled over to the window and climbed inside. Lidja seized him in a hug and pulled him down onto the bed.

“Oh! Oh! Oh!” she said, kissing his face over and over. “I’ve missed you so much! But, look at you! What happened to you?”

She put hands on both sides of his face and looked at his black eye and bruises that were finally starting to fade. She kissed his eyes very gently.

“I’m here,” Revin said. “And that’s all that matters. What’s been happening here?”

“Oh, it’s really bad, Revin,” Lidja said. “There are soldiers everywhere now. They’re stopping everyone and searching everything.”

“Are you still driving the coach for the Seneschal?” Revin asked.

“No,” Lidja said sadly. “They said that until the crisis is over I should stay home.”

“It just means I’ll have you all to myself,” Revin said. Lidja hugged him even tighter and then kissed him on his mouth when he tried to say something else.

“But there is something I want to do,” he said, when Lidja finally came up for air.

“Mmmmm,” Lidja said, giving him little kisses on his neck and throat and working her way lower.

“And it’s dangerous,” he continued as she began to unbutton his shirts.

“Mm-hmm,” she said, reaching around to unhook his chest binding.

“And I’ll need your help,” he said.

“Mm-hmm,” she agreed as she kissed him on his chest and belly.

“I’m not sure you’re taking this seriously,” Revin said.

“Hmm,” she said, loosening his trousers and working her way even lower.

Revin closed his eyes, leaned back, and gave himself over to her completely.

Author Bio

Steven D. Brewer has been a fan of science fiction and fantasy stories for as long as he can remember. He still remembers getting scolded for not reading chapter books in fourth grade because he was avidly consuming the Hobbit, late at night, by flashlight under his covers. And he probably got his copy from his older brother and most important mentor.

As an author, Brewer identifies diverse obsessions that underlie his writing. His early interest in natural history, life science, and environmentalism he learned from his father, an ecologist and ornithologist. He attributes seeing his mother study German for his abiding passion for languages that led him to major in Spanish (as well as Biology) and subsequently learn Esperanto and use it for international correspondence and travel. His fascination with Japanese culture grew from writing haiku and haibun in Esperanto. And his mania for information technology and the Internet led him back to graduate school where he earned a Masters in Earth Science and a PhD in Science Education.

His scattered interests led to an eclectic employment history. He did farm work and food service growing up in southwest Michigan. He has worked as a large-animal caretaker, an archeological faunal analyst, a hunter of the fastest lizards in the world, a gas-station attendant, a bilingual teacher’s aide for a migrant-worker education program, and an edutainer with live animals and a portable planetarium. For the past quarter century he has served as a non-tenure-system faculty member in higher education.

Brewer currently teaches scientific writing at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He lives in Amherst, Massachusetts with his extended family.

Author Website: https://stevendbrewer.com/

Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/limako

Author Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/author.sdbrewer

Author Mastodon: https://wandering.shop/@stevendbrewer

Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7883389.Steven_D_Brewer

Author Liminal Fiction (LimFic.com): https://www.limfic.com/mbm-book-author/steven-d-brewer/

Author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Steven-D.-Brewer/author/B00EEIA8MO

Other Worlds Ink logo

Enter the Darkness by Sarah Budd Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Four people enter the underground caves beneath London during the Spring Solstice on personal missions and must face their personal demons and the bloodthirsty White Lady in author Sarah Budd’s “Enter the Darkness”. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

During the Spring Solstice, four people enter the caves underneath London.

Garth: a shy young man, who seeks to save the girl of his dreams.

Cassie: a beautiful young woman, who seeks to use the dark magic of the caves for her own purposes.

Bill: an older man with a terrible secret, who seeks to find Garth and Cassie before it’s too late.

Sienna: a con artist with a dark past, who seeks to escape her fate as a chosen sacrifice.

Four people enter. Each of them must battle their personal demons before facing the White Lady, who rises each year during the Spring Solstice with a hunger for human flesh.

Only one of them will survive.

The Review

This was a thrilling and bone-chilling horror read. The author does an incredible job of drawing the reader into the narrative with haunting imagery and tension throughout the writing itself, and the visuals the setting conjures up for the readers allow the terrors of the darkness to seep into the reader’s imagination, giving the story a pulse that won’t stop beating.

To me, the balance the author struck between character progression and the atmosphere was the highlight of the narrative. The emphasis each character got in their own chapters and the tragic backstories that some of these characters had to endure reflected the darkness of the caves themselves. Yet it was the terrifying atmosphere that really inspired the reader, as the fear that comes from small, confined spaces in nature like these caverns and the things that lurk amongst the darkness instantly keep the reader’s pulse beating faster and faster as the tension mounts. 

Advertisements

The Verdict

Memorable, haunting, and entertaining, author Sarah Budd’s “Enter the Darkness” is a must-read horror novel that readers won’t be able to put down. The twists and turns in the narrative, the heartbreaking tales that drive these characters, and the shocking ending will leave readers breathless as the story hits its final crescendo. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

http://www.sjbudd.co.uk/

The Dark Side of Grace by Ronald Chapman Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

In the wake of a terrorist attack, a journalist dives into the heart of violence and the impact of trauma in author Ronald Chapman’s “The Dark Side of Grace”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

A devastating terrorist bomb blast at a spiritual retreat outside Santa Fe, New Mexico, sends journalist Kevin Pitcairn and his beloved Emmy on a quixotic quest to understand the roots of violence. Traveling across the country deep into the bowels of Southern Appalachia, their search takes them through a long-standing rift in the American consciousness to confrontations with remarkable and anomalous characters, some of them deeply spiritual, others well-grounded in research and psychology.

In this sequel to the much-acclaimed A Killer’s Grace, Pitcairn and Emmy return to the exploration of innocence while adding to it a deepening understanding of injury and ordeal―and its amazing corollary of Post-Traumatic Growth. As the quest and its dangers rip their lives apart, doors open that lure them back and forth across the country in search of tendrils tying together the events and anguish, as well as bringing the protagonists more deeply together.

The Review

The imagery found throughout the author’s writing was quite remarkable, showcasing the duality of beauty and horror that can often be found in violence and those who perpetrate or are victims of it. The themes of violence, trauma, and the psychological and emotional impact of it all on both sides were really thought-provoking and allowed the reader to feel the tension and atmosphere the author built around his main cast of characters.

The character arcs and world-building were top-notch in this remarkable read. The connection between Pitcairn and Emmy was remarkable, capturing the emotional journey these individuals take as they are rocked by this attack on both a social and personal level. The continuation of their character arcs from the first book in the author’s catalog, along with the underlying emotional current flowing through our world today both politically and societally, made this book really engaging.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, entertaining, and brilliantly written, author Ronald Chapman’s “The Dark Side of Grace” is a must-read novel. The passionate way the author wrote this story and the dynamic character arcs that the author presented did a remarkable job of drawing the reader further and further into the story, making this a truly compelling novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Ronald Chapman is an author, speaker, and facilitator of approaches that increase well-being-ness and produce breakthroughs when practiced deeply and in a sustained fashion. He is the creator of Seeing True™ and Progressive Recovery, resources dedicated to exploring concepts of engaging, releasing, and transcending blockages in our lives. At the heart of Seeing True and all of his work is the Greek notion of “metanoia,” which could translate as a profound change of heart. Ronald maintains two core businesses as well. Leading Public Health provides facilitation, strategy and consultation to public health clientele, while Magnetic North delivers similar services to a broader array of clients. 

Ron spent many years as a national award winning radio commentator on KUNM radio in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is an elite Accredited Speaker through Toastmasters International, and an accomplished leadership facilitator working with clients from all over the world, including the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization. Ron currently resides in Atlanta, and spends much of his time immersed in art and beauty wherever his travels take him. 

Find Chapman Online:

https://www.ronaldchapman.com/author

https://www.seeingtrue.com/blog

https://www.progressiverecovery.org/

https://www.facebook.com/ron.chapman.5/

https://www.instagram.com/seeing_true/

The Dark Side of Grace  is available in print and as an ebook at Amazon. You can add it to your GoodReads reading list as well.

Blog Tour Dates 

June 5th @ The Muffin

What goes better in the morning than a muffin? Join us at the WOW blog to celebrate the launch of author Ronald Chapman’s The Dark Side of Grace.  You can read an interview with the author and enter to win a copy of the book.

https://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com/

June 6th @ Book Reviews from an Avid Reader

Joan from Book Reviews from an Avid Reader reviews Ronald Chapman’s The Dark Side of Grace.  You won’t want to miss Joan’s insight into this thriller! 

http://bookwomanjoan.blogspot.com/

June 7th @ The Mommies Reviews with Tara

Tara from The Mommies Reviews shares her thoughts as she reviews Ronald Chapman’s The Dark Side of Grace.  You won’t want to miss Tara’s insight into this thriller! 

http://www.themommiesreviews.com/

June 8th @ World of My Imagination

Nicole from World of My Imagination spends time asking Ronald Chapman about his latest book, The Dark Side of Grace in a fun interview about 5 Things on a Saturday Night! 

https://worldofmyimagination.com/

June 9th @ Lisa Haselton

Lisa Haselton interviews Ronald Chapman about his recent thriller, The Dark Side of Grace.  You won’t want to miss this insightful and thrilling author interview!

https://lisahaselton.com/blog/

June 10th @ Choices by Madeline Sharples

Today’s guest author at Choices with Madeline Sharples is fellow author Ronald Chapman. Chapman has recently released another thriller, The Dark Side of Grace.  Today he’ll be writing an intriguing article titled: “Agnostic but Faithful”. Readers won’t want to miss this one! 

http://www.madelinesharples.com/

June 12th @ The Mommies Reviews with Glenda

Glenda from The Mommies Reviews shares her thoughts as she reviews Ronald Chapman’s The Dark Side of Grace.  You won’t want to miss Glenda’s insight into this thriller! 

http://www.themommiesreviews.com/

June 17th @ Boots, Shoes & Fashion

Linda from Boots, Shoes & Fashion interviews Ronald Chapman about his recent thriller, The Dark Side of Grace.  You won’t want to miss this insightful and thrilling author interview!

https://bootsshoesandfashion.com/

June 20th @ One Writer’s Journey

Today’s guest author at One Writer’s Journey is fellow author Ronald Chapman. Chapman has recently released another thriller, The Dark Side of Grace.  Today he’ll be writing a fascinating article titled: “Getting Over Ourselves”. Readers won’t want to miss this one! 

https://suebe.wordpress.com/

June 20th @ Storeybook Reviews

Today’s guest author at Storeybook Reviews is author Ronald Chapman. Chapman has recently released another thriller, The Dark Side of Grace.  Today he’ll be writing a captivating article titled: “Finding Emotional Sobriety; Even in Chaos”. Readers won’t want to miss this one! 

https://storeybookreviews.com/

June 21st @ Nikki’s Book Reviews

Nikki from Nikki’s Book Reviews shares her thoughts as she reviews Ronald Chapman’s The Dark Side of Grace.  You won’t want to miss Nikki’s insight into this thriller! 

https://nikkitsbookreviews.wordpress.com/

June 22nd @ Author Anthony Avina

Fellow Author Anthony Avina shares his thoughts as he reviews Ronald Chapman’s The Dark Side of Grace.  You won’t want to miss another author’s insight into this thriller! 

https://atomic-temporary-124910902.wpcomstaging.com/

July 6th @ Knottyneedle Creative

Judy from Knottyneedle Creative shares her thoughts as she reviews Ronald Chapman’s The Dark Side of Grace.  You won’t want to miss Judy’s insight into this thriller! 

http://knottyneedle.blogspot.com/

July 16th @ A Wonderful World of Words

Today’s guest author at A Wonderful World of Words is author Ronald Chapman. Chapman has recently released another thriller, The Dark Side of Grace.  Today he’ll be writing a captivating article titled: “Transformative Ideas: Self-Interest, Positivity and Stillness”. Readers won’t want to miss this one! 

https://awonderfulworldofwordsa.blogspot.com/

The Billionaire’s Nanny Next Door by Krichele Monroe Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A former college crush turned billionaire single dad hires a young woman to help take care of his son, and as sparks fly in spite of a complicated past, she must find a way to keep him and his son in her life when trouble comes looking for him in author Krichele Monroe’s “The Billionaire’s Nanny Next Door”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Hottie Billionaire, single Dad alert! And he needs a Nanny. Yes please… My college crush just popped into my new bookstore with his little boy. He’s as gorgeous, if not more so now than when we hooked up way back. I can’t stand this guy though. He had made a bad investment for my brother way back and lost all his savings. The rich jerk could’ve at least paid him back. Now he needs a nanny, and I’m the only one he trusts with Oliver. I’m in over my head, and get warm in all the right places every time he’s in close proximity. Can’t be sure yet if I have the physical and emotional energy to get involved with these two. Just when I lose my heart to both of them, trouble comes looking for Liam, and they’re gone. Was this a temporary goodbye, or will my little Prince and his dad rescue me again?

The Review

This was yet another heated and captivating women’s fiction and romance novel. The tension and history between the protagonists give the reader a depth of understanding surrounding these individuals, and the pain each experienced drives the narrative forward considerably. The small-town coastal setting gives a more direct sense of community to the narrative than the author’s previous novel and balances out the cozy nature of the story with the more heated moments between the characters.

The connection that forms between both Liam and Charlie is incredible, giving readers a grounded and passionate romance that is steeped in a shared history and a shared trauma that has defined the rift that formed between them for so long. The real-world issues both have not only with one another but with themselves will resonate with readers as they are forced to fight their way back to one another internally.

Advertisements

The Verdict

Heartfelt, passionate, and engaging, author Krichele Monroe’s “The Billionaire’s Nanny Next Door” is a must-read romance and women’s fiction novel. The twists and turns in the couple’s story and the gripping narrative that forms around their individual and shared journeys allow the reader to get lost in these characters’ lives easier, providing a lot of entertainment for fans of the genre. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!


Rating: 10/10

My Island Billionaire’s Surprise Baby by Krichele Monroe Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young woman falls head over heels for a wealthy man when she goes to his resort to review his business, and soon finds herself struggling with her growing feelings, his chaotic ex-wife, and the growing secret between them in author Krichele Monroe’s “My Island Billionaire’s Surprise Baby”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

I was robbed on my way to the billionaire’s resort I have to review. He better make this right or he’ll get a nasty report. As it turns out, he’s a silver fox… my skin heats and I blush when he says hello. Apologies and efforts to “wow” me, we spend time together, and now I’m craving him. I’m here to do my job, not fall in love with this guy. But my heart and body have other ideas… The beach, the moon, and the warm Hawaiian breeze are intoxicating, and I’m all his. The feel of his strong, tanned arms around me heat me to my core. He’s twice my age, and he’s not worried about the difference, but I don’t feel the same.. Between his toxic ex-wife and his mom calling me a gold digger, it’s best for all if I leave here.. And now the baby in my belly and I are on our way back home to Paris…

The Review

This was a heated and passionate read. The author immediately taps into the rich chemistry that immediately presents itself between the two characters, allowing their relationship to blossom and grow quickly. Tapping into themes of romances with age gaps, those with wealth versus those without, and the impact that society has on a relationship, the author was able to layer the story with dynamic settings and complex suspense and drama that kept the reader invested in the story. 

However, the heart of this narrative rested in the romance and heat that bubbled between the protagonists. The obstacles they faced along the way, from scheming exes and doubtful parental figures to their own painful experiences with love and the way the world would view their relationship, not only felt real and relatable but elevated the tension that the author was able to infuse with the imagery in the author’s writing. 

Advertisements

The Verdict

Memorable, exhilarating, and thrilling, author Krichele Monroe’s “My Island Billionaire’s Baby” is a must-read contemporary romance and women’s fiction novel. The adult and heated scenes between the protagonists and the captive drama that unfolds as their relationship develops will keep readers enthralled as they hang onto the author’s every word, eager to see where this couple ends up. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

OWI Blog Tour: When a Man Loves an Alien by (Tentacular Tales Book 3) by Chloe Archer Interview and Blog Tour

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn Blog Tours, Book Events, InterviewsLeave a comment

Interview

What was your first published work? Tell me a little about it.My first published book was It’s Not Unusual To Be Loved by an Alien. It’s the first in my ongoing M/M sci-fi rom com series, Tentacular Tales. Think Men in Black meets The Princess Bride–but hella gay, and with tentacles! A sunshiny sci-fi nerd discovers aliens are real and living incognito here on Earth. Where might you ask? Las Vegas, baby! What better place to hide in plain sight! It’s a wild, zany ride full of all kinds of sci-fi nerdy goodness, pop culture references galore, hilarious shenanigans, and spicy fun! What is the most heartfelt thing a reader has said to you?I’m still fairly new at all this (my first year publiversary isn’t until September) but I’ve already received many heartfelt messages and comments from readers. The ones that are really touching are from folks who tell me my series is their go-to comfort read when they’re feeling down or sad. When I decided to write the series, I really hoped the book would speak to other readers and give them all the warm, happy, and laughter-filled feels possible! What was one of the most surprising things you’ve learned in writing your books?I learned that I largely have to dictate my first draft. Writing on a blank page doesn’t go well for me. My internal editor/critic wants to come out and nitpick every word I write so it becomes a two steps forward, one step back kind of situation. Not fun! When I heard about dictation, I thought I’d give it a try because I was quite stuck in making forward progress on my first book. I was a natural from the first attempt! I dictated a solid 20-minutes that day. Dictation has made my writing goals possible. In general, I will dictate for 30-40 minutes at a time and then I will edit the transcription before moving on. It has sped up my whole process and I can easily get my word count goals each day when I do this.What were your goals and intentions in this book, and how well do you feel you achieved them?When a Man Loves an Alien is the third book in the series and it continues to follow the main couple, River and Kai. I knew this was the penultimate book in their main story arc, so there were a lot of things that needed to happen to expand on story lines from the first two books and new ones leading into the epic finale of the next book. I knew it was going to be a fairly action packed ride, but as I’ve told some people, imagine it more as a Mr. Bean-style of adventure. I’m all about the humor, after all! I also wanted to continue to show growth in my main characters and deepen their relationship. Then there’s all the side characters—there are so many and more keep clamoring in my brain to join the story world! It’s a lot to juggle but I try my best. On the whole, I think I achieved my goals based on what readers have been telling me. Phew! Fingers crossed I can do it again with Book 4…gulp!Who did your cover, and what was the design process like?The fabulous and super talented Natasha Snow did my cover. She’s done all my covers so far. I always wished I was artistically inclined, but alas, I don’t have the gift. I’d been drawn to a number of Natasha’s covers for other authors in the past and I knew going into it that she was the person I wanted to work with. Her process is very streamlined. She has a form you fill out with details about the book and thoughts, images, or inspirations for the cover. I gave her a couple of suggestions, but mostly let her do her thing since I trust her judgment. What secondary character would you like to explore more? Tell me about him or her.I’m excited to explore River’s stoner Gen X uncle, Benji, some more. He’s kind of a cross between The Dude in The Big Lebowski and Keanu Reeves. He’s an interesting guy with a complicated backstory. I’ve already seeded plenty of hints in the series that he is going to end up having a romance with River’s boyfriend’s brother, Mal. Their story is going to be Book 5 in the series!As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?An author! I knew in about fourth grade. Books were my safe space and my passion. At the same time, when I read them I would get all sorts of ideas for my own stories and wanted to be able to share them with others. But I grew up at a time when traditional publishing was the only option available and most of the adults in my life didn’t consider it a viable career path and steered me toward pursuing other things. It’s taken me a long time to get here but I’m glad to have finally started achieving my dreams!We know what you like to write, but what do you like to read in your free time, and why?I read loads of LGBTQ+ romance when I have free time. I like to keep up with favorite authors but also discover new ones. In general, I’m not a fan of anything super dark when it comes to romance. I lean more toward stuff that is lighter and funnier. I love a good paranormal (as long as it isn’t super angsty or dark), fantasy, urban fantasy, sci-fi, and mystery. While I do read a lot of M/M, I also enjoy F/F and other LGBTQ+ configurations of couples. The rainbow spectrum is beautiful, and as a queer person myself, I enjoy reading widely across the spectrum.

When a Man Loves an Alien - Chloe Archer/

Chloe Archer has a new MM sci-fi romance book out, Tentacular Tales book 3: When a Man Lies an Alien. And there’s a giveaway.

A grumpy-sexy alien and his (mostly) human mate are just trying to get married for goodness sake! But the road to matrimony is riddled with obstacles that could prove deadly…

RIVER

Being engaged to my adorable alien boo is a dream come true. Too bad there’s a target painted on my back. Come on universe, quit messing with true love! For reals. Kai and I need to plan our wedding—which is going to be hella quirky and fun, because I say so.

Cue Shilgar the Deadly, who’s screwing up everything—what with trying to kill me and all. My life is becoming even more unbelievable than my fictional characters, Lord Vardox and Captain Starblade.

There’s no way I’m not walking down the aisle with Kai, so help me! I fully intend to ‘get me to the church’—I mean Vegas wedding chapel—on time. This fool of an assassin thinks he can mess with my dreams of wedded bliss? I don’t think so. He’s about to learn he’s met his match in River Sullivan!

KAI

My relationship with River is solid and wedding bells are in the air. Unfortunately, other parts of my life are…less stable. Between juggling a highly inconvenient Mating Fever that can strike at any time, and dealing with an investigator from Intergalactic Alliance Headquarters, I’m finding it hard to hold onto my usual equilibrium.

When Shilgar the Deadly finally shows up on Earth, gunning for River, the control I cling to is stretched razor thin. I’m desperate to do whatever I can to keep my mate safe—but I’m not sure if I can.

Yet things aren’t all that they seem. New secrets come to light and we’re all left reeling. Apparently, that famous Earthling playwright was correct when he wrote, “the course of true love never did run smooth….”

When a Man Loves an Alien (Tentacular Tales #3) is a (96k words) M/M sci-fi rom com and the third book in the series. It should be read in chronological order. This installment features an assassin who just won’t quit, little old ladies at slot machines who should NOT be messed with, a zipline action-hero moment, shocking secrets and revelations, a death-defying climax, and just maybe…a zany Vegas wedding? This book has an HFN ending and no cheating. Never fear—there is a guaranteed HEA by the end of the series!

Warnings: sex involving tentacles, some violence

Series Blurb

Tentacular Tales is an M/M sci-fi rom com series that follows the adventures of humans falling in love with aliens who are living incognito on Earth–in the wild and fabulous, Las Vegas. Of course that’s where aliens would be hiding right under our noses! Enter a world full of plenty of geeky humor, zany shenanigans, sexy aliens, and tentacles galore! Think Men in Black meets The Princess Bride–but hella gay! Note: This series should be read in chronological order.

Universal Buylink | Goodreads

Giveaway

Chloe is giving away a $10 Amazon gift card with this tour:

a Rafflecopter giveawayhttps://widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.js

Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47286/?

Excerpt

When a Man Loves an Alien meme

RIVER

“Step right up and get your Tentacular Tales merch! We’ve got T-shirts in all sizes, made to accommodate folks of various shapes and appendages.” My old neighbor—and incognito alien—Tom Jones holds up one of the aforementioned shirts. “For those die-hard fans of our favorite villain out there, we have our brand spanking—no pun intended—new Team Vardox FTW tees!”

There’s an enthusiastic murmur among the crowd. Tom drapes the shirt over his shoulder like a bar towel and plucks up another. “For the more daring among you, we have I got tentacled by Lord Vardox…and I liked it or Villain in the streets, Tentacled-Lover in the sheets.”

There’s some enthusiastic whistling at that one. He tosses it aside and grabs a different one. “And let’s not forget about our Starblade stans in the crowd.” There are answering whistles and cheers. “Of course we have Team Starblade FTW. We can’t let Team Vardox have all the fun! We also have I’m too sexy for this shirt, and so is Captain Starbladeor Tentacle Lover on the DL. Get your favorites before we run out!”

Aliens of all shapes and sizes begin surging forward, cash in hands and other appendages, as they surround the folding table where Tom is selling his wares.

I shake my head in awe, turning to my super-sexy alien boo, and now fiancé, Kai. “Did you know about this?”

He shakes his head. “Nope. Looks like Tom took a cue out of your book and went the route of T-shirt design.”

I glance down at the black cotton tee I’m wearing. On the front, in multicolored sequins, it reads Team ANAL,and on the back it says in shiny metallic gold font, Kicking butt from here to Uranus. My design is a work of art and classy as fuck—it also promotes team spirit, thank you very much. I’ve had quite a few orders from folks at work already. “Just so you know, I’m going to keep wearing this until it grows on you.” I beam. “I’ve got a different colored one for each day of the week!”

Kai rolls his eyes but favors me with a teasing smile. “Save me now.”

I give his arm a light and playful smack. “You know you love it.”

His mouth twitches and he arches an eyebrow. “I wouldn’t go that far, darling. But I’ll put up with it for you.”

I clutch my hands to my heart. “OMG, honeybuns. You’re getting to be sooo romantic! You just called me darling. It’s like we’re an old married couple already.”

Kai flushes adorably pink and sputters. I love getting a rise out of him at moments like this. He can be a bit too tightly wound, so I have to help him let go of his iron grip on duty, responsibility, and propriety.

I’m like Yoda, teaching him the ways of the Fun-Loving Force.

A microphone crackles to life and my new friend Nirblob addresses the crowd from atop the small impromptu stage against the wall at the far end of the bar. “Good evening, friends, and welcome to Vardox’s Cantina. Tonight, it is my supreme pleasure to usher in our very first Open Mic night!”

There’s an enthusiastic round of applause and some loud whistles.

Nirblob grins, which admittedly is a little freaky since he has no lips. I still haven’t quite gotten used to that. “This evening, we are most fortunate to have a very special guest. Here to kick things off with a sneak peek from the next chapter in the Tentacular Tales of Captain Starblade, please join me in welcoming the one, the only, River Sullivan, a.k.a. KirklovesSpock4eva!”

The crowd goes wild, which in a super-secret alien bar can be a bit surreal. After all, this bar is mainly for extraterrestrials who don’t pass easily in human society, or ones who do but want the opportunity to be their true selves in a safe space. Some folks here make even Nirblob look somewhat ordinary. It’s a bit like being a real-life version of the Mos Eisley Cantina in Star Wars—only less violent!

“Looks like you’re up,” Kai murmurs, giving my arm a squeeze.

I grin. “Give me a kiss for luck, boo.”

He sighs at the endearment, but his eyes darken as he leans down and takes my lips in a way that makes me want to ditch this event and go get our freak on.

When Kai pulls back, I’m tingly all over and more than a little hot and bothered. But I’m pleased to notice, as he adjusts himself discreetly, he isn’t exactly unaffected either.

“Knock ‘em dead.”

I give him a jaunty little salute. “Aye, aye, captain!”

He can’t keep the fondness from his eyes when he tries to glare at me, which turns my grin into that of a lovesick fool. And I basically am. I have no qualms about owning it.

I make my way over to the stage, offering variants of high fives along the way—to a tail here, a hand with eight fingers there, a furry paw every now and then. Two months ago, I never could have imagined this would be my life. A longtime Roswell alien conspiracy believer and total X-phile, I—by some remarkable twist of fate—actually foundaliens here on Earth, living incognito among humanity.

What are the odds?

Author Bio

Author Chloe Archer

Chloe Archer writes M/M sci-fi and paranormal rom coms with laugh out loud humor because she’s all about bringing the funny-sexy back. Oh, yeah!

She currently calls Minnesota home, but has lived abroad in places like Montreal, Edinburgh, and Tokyo. She’s hoping to relocate to Scotland permanently one day if the stars align.

Chloe is a fur mama to two adorable Yorkies, Jasper and Teddy, and she loves them in a crazy dog mama kind of way. When she isn’t busy writing, she enjoys visiting friends and family, traveling, reading, binge watching movies and TV shows, and practicing her karaoke skills. She does a mean cover of Pat Benatar and Cher, or so she’s been told.

Author Website: https://chloearcher.com

Author Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071621497295

Author Facebook (Author Page): https://www.facebook.com/chloearcherwriter/

Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chloearcher_author/

Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22694415.Chloe_Archer

Author Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Chloe-Archer/author/B0BB1CCYM9

Other Worlds Ink logo

Djinn: A War on Terror Supernatural Thriller by Craig DiLouie Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young woman searching for her father and his supernatural unit in the wake of the deadly withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan discovers the deadly force they unleashed to stop the violent attacks by the Taliban in author Craig DiLouie’s “Djinn: A War on Terror Supernatural Thriller”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

In the violent aftermath of the American withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, a photojournalist arrives to learn the fate of the Witch Doctors, a fabled Army occult warfare unit. Holly believes her father, reported missing in action, ran this mysterious outfit that sought to weaponize black magic to win the War on Terror.

As the Taliban advances and the national government crumbles, Holly makes a harrowing journey into the deep desert to an abandoned base, which houses a terrifying secret. There, along with a group of American ex-soldiers, themselves cursed, she will face the ancient evil the Witch Doctors unleashed…

The terrors that live in the world of the djinn. The horrors that lurk in war itself.

A modern thriller, Djinn reimagines the witch for the War on Terror era, taking the reader on a journey into the heart of darkness that is both human and supernatural.

Bookbaby.com helps independent authors bring their creative vision to the marketplace. Sell eBooks online in the biggest retail stores.

The Review

This was such a compelling and memorable horror thriller. The vast amount of culture and detail that went into bringing both modern-day Afghanistan and the “War on Terror” to life with the ancient mythology and world-building surrounding the Djinn, witches, and faith overall was thrilling to see come to life. The imagery the author infused into the writing really allowed the setting and chilling nature of the Djinn to come to life on the page. 

The evolution of Holly as a character, from her hard-hitting journalism and the strength to plunge into the depths of war-torn Afghanistan to the respect she comes to have for the people and their culture and the bravery she shows facing this terrifying threat made her a remarkable protagonist to really root for. The character interactions that help drive this narrative forward and the commentary that the plot makes on things like America’s hand in what has happened to the country, the line between morality and cultural differences, and the impact that war has on people, in general, made this a brilliant story to get lost in.

ABN Banner

The Verdict

Haunting, compelling, and entertaining, author Craig DiLouie’s “Djinn” is a must-read horror thriller of 2023. The unique setting and cultural development of this narrative, as well as the attention to detail and the collective work by the characters in this story, will have readers hanging onto the author’s every word. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Craig DiLouie is an author of popular thriller, apocalyptic/horror, and sci-fi/fantasy fiction.

In hundreds of reviews, Craig’s novels have been praised for their strong characters, action, and gritty realism. Each book promises an exciting experience with people you’ll care about in a world that feels real.

These works have been nominated for major literary awards such as the Bram Stoker Award and Audie Award, translated into multiple languages, and optioned for film. He is a member of the HWA, International Thriller Writers, and IFWA.

http://craigdilouie.com/

You Can Help Support Author Anthony Avina and His Blog with a Donation Now. Any and All Support is Welcome and Appreciated.