Tag: crime drama

Interview with Author Barry Harden

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I was born to a working-class couple in post-WWII London and arrived with significantly less enthusiasm than was had at my procreation. In due time, I was left to my own devices at a very young age with no guidebook for the scenic route or the pitfalls. While animals and nature offered me solace, the injustices I witnessed ignited a growing rage, one that found its voice in scribbled thoughts on pub serviettes, which later took shape as poems and stories

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

In Ada and Eddie, it was recently pointed out to me that the character of Eddie, a homeless drifter, was unconsciously created from my own experiences growing up alone from an early age. I had a home but was spiritually homeless. I wrote Ada as the character who embodied my ideal companion. Amanita Virosa: The Destroying Angel was inspired by the plight of the Romani people during the Bosnia War, in particular a female fighter, Fadila Odžaković Žuta, who was killed at age 34. She served as my inspiration for Amanita.

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

My novels are rooted in a deep commitment to address issues which I’m passionate about: social inequality, the preservation of nature and wildlife, and society’s power to address the challenges of political malfeasance. In writing fact-based political thrillers, I aim to bring these injustices to light and engage readers who might not seek such information in nonfiction formats. Stories of ordinary citizens fighting for change can inspire readers to demand accountability, participate in civic life, and push for reforms.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

The political thriller genre allows me to weave serious ideas into compelling narratives, shedding light on real historical events and abuses of power while keeping readers engaged and on the edge of their seats. It’s a way of holding up a mirror to the world while hoping people look deep enough to see what lies beneath.

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5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

I’d sit down with Eddie, the homeless man who discovers the body on the moors. His ostracization, his quiet endurance, and his humility mirror much of what I’ve experienced myself. I’d ask him how he manages to hold on to his sense of self in a world that insists on making him invisible. I’d want to know where he finds the strength to keep going when so much has been stripped away—because in truth, I’ve often asked myself the same question.

6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Facebook and Goodreads have been somewhat helpful but reviewers and bloggers such as yourself bring invaluable exposure to readers.

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

Read as many notable authors in your genre as possible and note what makes their stories work. Ensure your work is grammatically flawless and has a clear story arc. Use reviewers or beta readers not related to you to give unbiased opinions.

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

I’ve just published a memoir, Throwaway, and completed a new thriller, Carney, about a Jamaican crusader for victims of abuse and social injustice.

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About the Author

I am the author of five political thrillers, a collection of provocative short stories, and a book of dark poetry. Sociopolitical commentary is infused into my work, whether through fictional narratives, allegorical short stories or scathing satire that exposes the absurdities of human interaction with each other, animals, and the environment.

When not writing, I find solace in a glass (or two) of a well-aged Corbières while listening to Black jazz of the 20s and 30s. Born and raised in North Harrow, London, I now enjoy the peace and comfort of nature and wildlife and the company of my feral furry friends in my cat sanctuary. A change of scenery to the seashore sparks creativity—without the distraction of my cats adding their input on the keyboard.

Website: www.barryhardenauthor.com

YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@barryharden-writer

Spurious Scrapper by George Veck 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. 

Trigger warnings – Self-harm, drug use, profanity & violence.

A young man living on the fringes of society attempts to steer a straight laced new tenant towards his ways of thinking, with disastrous results in author George Veck’s “Spurious Scrapper”.

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The Synopsis

Chrissy’s parties never stop in the profitable confines of his locally renowned trap house. Fuelled by North Wales’ lack of prosperity, his aimless cretin entourage are dragged along for a parasitic, rampant ride, rinsing the deprived town’s insatiable addicts of their spare change.

When Sam, a naïve, straight-edged student moves in and jeopardizes this anarchic way of life, Chrissy stops at nothing to get him onside. Never did he envisage the tragic consequences…

Such short-term brazen gain has long tarnished Chrissy’s local reputation; tight-knit communities sometimes forgive, but rarely forget. Aching to escape this pit-hole existence is great, but being allowed to execute change is a privilege only some get.

The Review

This is a truly gritty, haunting, and engaging read. The author expertly weaves together a story of chaos and drama, delving into a dark and realistic depiction of what addiction and life in a university can be like. The imagery in the author’s writing style brings this lifestyle to the forefront, delving into the shocking realizations and raw language that readers often find themselves confronting in these characters. 

The author achieved both dark humor and harrowing life experiences within one narrative. The overwhelming feeling of intensity and the raw look into drug culture, not only in general but in particular in a university setting, allowed the reader to see through the eyes of these realistic characters. The added depth of a revenge story and the consequences others must pay for one’s mistakes made the reader feel the shock and awe this particular story brought.

The Verdict

Author George Veck’s “Spurious Scrapper” is a must-read vigilante justice meets crime thriller and drama novel that is shocking, honest, and gripping. The thought-provoking look into the mindset of characters like Chrissy and the evolution, or at times devolution, of these individuals allows the reader to get a firmer idea of what tragedy is waiting for those who are sadly immersed in the underbelly of the drug world. The haunting ending will stay with readers long after it ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born in Hastings but raised in North Wales, George mostly writes gritty crime fiction set in Wales.

His inspiration partly derives from political greed, and the plights of those who suffer as a result; whether that’s from mental health issues our criminally underfunded health system won’t treat, housing shortages, domestic abuse, or living in crippling poverty without hope.

As of 2024 George has published six books. Dark domestic thriller Belabour is his latest.

The Tattoo Murder by Bob Brill 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 former US Army combat veteran takes on the injustices of his own hometown after witnessing too much injustice in the world in author Bob Brill’s “The Tattoo Murder”. 

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The Synopsis 

“The Tattoo Murder” is the story of a U-S Army combat veteran who became a police officer back in his home town after he’d seen enough injustice in the world.

A different kind of cop, Det. John Potenza travels to the tune of his own drum, the waves which he loves to surf, the women who occupy his life and the music which drives him. All this is secondary to getting it right when it comes to justice. An Italian-American who knows his way around the kitchen, the fit and trim with comic book hero good looks catches the eye of almost every woman he meets. If he were British he’d probably be in “her Majesty’s Secret Service” with a Double-O in his name.

Many of the characters in the book are derived from Bob Brill’s own past and acquaintances and friends and while the book is a work of fiction, the people are real – well sort of.

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The Review

This was a very cinematic, captivating crime thriller. The author does a great job of finding that perfect balance in character development with the buildup of the narrative overall. The gritty nature of the criminal underworld serves as a perfect juxtaposition to the almost dreamy vibes of the setting, and the tension that builds as the investigation goes deeper and deeper into elements of corruption and brutality will keep the adrenaline pumping as the narrative takes off. 

The core of this narrative has to be in the dynamic character growth in the story, especially with the protagonist. In many ways, John hits like a classic police procedural hero, in the same vein as characters from Lethal Weapon or Dragnet, with his proclivity for being a lady’s man and being much like a rock star on the force. Yet his dedication to the truth and fighting for justice speaks to his moral code and gives readers a new literary crime hero to root for in his quest to bring light into the shadows that criminals create for themselves.

The Verdict

Memorable, action-packed, and entertaining, author Bob Brill’s “The Tattoo Murder” is a must-read crime thriller. The nuanced way the author highlights the character’s journey and the almost noir elements of the narrative helped add depth to the twists and turns that will have readers eager for more of this modern-day gumshoe. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A native of Pittsburgh, PA and a hardcore Pirates and Steelers fan, Bob began in radio career in 1972 and worked all over the western US, several times in the L-A market. He’s currently a news anchor at CBS Radio LA; KNX 1070 News Radio.

Bob has won multiple broadcast awards including an Edward R. Murrow Award (among others) for anchoring KNX’s storm coverage in 2011.

A baseball historian, Bob writes the very popular weekly column found at http://www.baseballinthe1960s.com. He also is a podcaster who has teamed with former NFL Quarterback Erik Kramer for a weekly Fantasy Football Podcast called Kramer and Brill, which can be found where ever you get your podcasts or at their website http://www.kramerandbrill.com. Both are always posted on Facebook as well as Twitter.

Bob made his mark with the UPI Radio Network when a gunman went crazy in a San Diego fast food restaurant and Bob covered the story. It was his first big break. He later became a UPI National Correspondent and Bureau Chief. He has interviewed presidents, covered Super Bowl games and Hollywood as well as major news stories.

He lives in L-A. He has survived earthquakes and a beating during the 1992 L-A riots while covering the story, which was recorded on audio tape.

Bob is considered to have an excellent voice and has not only done many voice overs and radio spots, he’s starred in television commercials. Bob authored “Fan Letters to a Stripper: A Patti Waggin Tale” from Schiffer Publishing and “NO BARRIER: How the Internet Destroyed the World Economy.” His third book “Al Kabul; Home Grown Terrorist” is sure to be a controversial novel as well as a great read. “Lancer; Hero of the West – The Prescott Affair” is the first in a series of western novels set in the 1880’s, centering on the central figure; Lancer. Lancer is a gun for hire, good guy, who works the West out of Tombstone.

http://www.bobbrillbooks.com/index.html

Killer with Three Heads (Killer Series Book Two)  by J.L. Hill 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 decade after faking his own death, a former mobster and criminal returns to NYC to find his daughter, and those who kidnapped her, no matter the cost in author J.L. Hill’s “Killer with Three Heads”, the second book in the Killer series.

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The Synopsis

It’s been ten years since the Banoa-Rocci war. It is all but forgotten in New York City. Then the unthinkable happens, someone has kidnapped Maria and her nanny Akilina, and resurrected the Devil.

Bulletproof Morris ‘Mojo’ Johnson has been missing for the last four years. He returns in a hailstorm of bullets looking for his daughter, and more importantly, her kidnappers. He is ready to reignite the old conflicts, or start a new one with whoever would be so bold.

Nicky ‘Nails’ Rocci is ready to ascend to the role of Godfather of his New York Family and take a seat on the board of the Syndicate. His friend can derail his entire plan and put him in the middle of a war with the other families, or worse, government forces.

The Review

This was quite the loaded and action-packed crime thriller. Although fairly new to the Killer Series by this author, the narrative works in a way that allows newcomers to enjoy the story without sacrificing the callbacks and story components from the first book for returning fans of this series. The book is definitely geared towards a more adult readership, as descriptive and lengthy scenes of violence and sexual activity take place. The vivid imagery the author’s writing evokes conjures to mind the 80’s crime stories that have become a part of our pop culture for years, bringing to life mobsters, drug cartels, shady government agents, and more to the table.

The heart of this narrative was the complexity of the protagonist and the emotional driving force behind the story itself. The kidnapping of the protagonist’s daughter reawakens the seasoned criminal within Morris, and his love and determination to save his daughter is matched by the ferocity and shocking levels of violence he is willing to inflict on others to find her and gain what he wants. The story also highlights the conflicting struggles of women in general, but in particular, this story the women who had to learn to survive in the criminal underworld through any means necessary, becoming both weapon and object of desire alike to not only gain access to information and targets but to survive the violent world that these men had created back then.

The Verdict

Shocking, adrenaline-fueled, and entertaining, author J.L. Hill’s “Killer with Three Heads” is a must-read crime thriller and a great second entry into the Killer Series. The twists and turns in the narrative and the international settings and timelines that showcase the growth and development of this cast of characters help elevate the classic story seen time and time again in organized crime stories, as a father and criminal must use his resources and power to save his daughter’s life, no matter how much blood he has to spill. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

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A native New Yorker, born and raised in the Bronx, James L Hill spent his adolescence years in Fort Apache, the South Bronx 41st precinct during the 60’s, during a time when you needed to have a gang to go to the store. Raised on blues, soul, and rock and roll gave him the heart of a flower child. Educated by the turmoil of Vietnam, Civil Rights, and the Sexual Revolution produced a gladiator. Realizing the precariousness of life gave him an adventurous outlook and willingness to try anything once, and if it did not kill him, maybe twice. 12 years of Catholic education and a couple of years in college spread between wild drug induce euphoric years, which did not kill him, gave James an unique moral compass that swings in any direction it wants. A scientific mind and a spirit that believes nothing is impossible if you want it bad enough guides his writings. He enjoys traveling to new places and seeing what life has to offer. James began writing short stories and poetry back in his early years. In his twenties moved on to novels. He worked in the financial industry and later got a degree in computer programming, his other love. James has a successful career as a software engineer designing, developing and maintaining systems for the government and the private sector. He has been programming for nearly forty years in various languages. After years in the computer world he returned to his first love, unleashing the characters in his head. Still a hopeless insomniac, he feels free to pound out plots. James L Hill is a prolific storyteller writing crime stories, fantasies, and science fiction, with a slant on the dark side of life. The next step on his journey naturally led to the business of publishing. He started RockHill Publishing LLC not only to produce his own work, but to give others access to the literary world. His computer background and experiences in word processing gives him insight into what it takes to publish good books.

https://www.jlhill-books.com/index.html

One Visit by George Veck Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews3 Comments

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

TRIGGER WARNING: SCENES OF DRUG ABUSE AND SEXUAL ABUSE OCCUR IN THIS NOVEL. READER DISCRETION IS ADVISED.

A young man hoping to keep his brother out of the care system must contend with an abusive father, a former acquaintance turned drug dealer and his own addiction in author George Veck’s “One Visit”.

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The Synopsis

In sleepy, rural North Wales, Frankie Gibbs, a recently laid off, aimless twenty-year-old on Universal Credit, wants nothing more than to keep his younger brother out of the care system. He single-handedly takes this upon himself while their alcoholic, cocaine-addict, single-parent father, Guy Gibbs, heaps misery on their lives through systematic abuse and his never-ending wild parties. After Guy is sent to prison, Frankie is coerced into opening his home to Justin, an acquaintance from his school days now turned drug dealer, while his own addiction and self-worth spiral beyond recognition.

The Review

This was a truly gritty, dark, and twisted crime drama. The author expertly weaves together a heartbreaking tale that examines the impact that drug addiction, abuse, and toxic family relationships can have on people. The haunting imagery and chilling atmosphere capture the grim setting and cinematic, almost indie-film quality of the novel.

The aspects of this narrative that really stood out were the heartbreaking character developments of this novel and the emphasis the author put on capturing the surrounding culture and tone of the people around the main cast of characters. The exploration of Wales in general and both the terminology and culture that exists within their community was fascinating for a U.S. reader to explore, while the traumatic road these characters travel down feels both relatable and emotional all at once.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, shocking, and engaging, author George Veck’s “One Visit” is a must-read crime drama. The horrors that the protagonist and his brother endure as the narrative descends further and further into chaos hone in on the growing problem of drug abuse and violence as a whole around the world, and will speak to readers on a very distinct level. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

I grew up in rural North West Wales, where hardships and a lack of opportunities spurred my passion for tackling tough subjects, such as poverty, addiction and mental health. Currently studying a masters degree in screenwriting at the University of South Wales, I’ve written and directed three short films. One Visit was the first feature-length screenplay I ever wrote, and through the exposure of this novel, I hope to garner interest and funding to turn it into a film one day. For news regarding my future novels and films, follow @vecks_gems_productions on Instagram.

https://www.instagram.com/vecks_gems_productions

Breaking the Weak Link by Gary Westphalen 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 real-life crime begins and subsequently inspires the story of a spur of the moment theft of an armored car in broad daylight that turns into a edge-of-your-seat thriller involving crime rings, tourists, the destruction of a national monument, and a fiery romance in author Gary Westphalen’s “Breaking the Weak Link”.

The Synopsis

When an undocumented immigrant in New York City happens upon an armored truck whose guards are simply not paying attention, he seizes the moment and casually walks off with $1.6-Million dollars in pure gold. That true-life event forms the basis for Breaking The Weak Link. But the story is just beginning. Before it’s over, an international crime ring will have attacked many more armored trucks and destroyed one of America’s greatest landmarks. Along with the way, a television reporter, a gold dealer, numerous armored truck guards, uncountable tourists, many of the criminals, and even the FBI Agent chasing them will have their lives hanging by a thread. Top it off with a blazing romance so hot the pages might catch on fire, and this book is a must read.

This fast-paced thriller by Author Gary Westphalen (Plan A Never Happens, Murdered For Nothing) twists and turns through every page, leaving the reader begging to know what happens next. The story travels from New York City to Buffalo, Pittsburgh, Washington, DC, and many other points, even as far as Nicaragua and Russia. The colorful detail woven into this non-stop story will make you believe you have been transported right into the scenes. It’s as if you are the unseen bystander in every locus of the plot.

Get comfortable, because once you start reading Breaking The Weak Link, you won’t put it down until it’s over. 

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The Review

What an incredible whirlwind thriller! The amazing thing that always entertains me when I read a Gary Westphalen book is a natural way the author ties into the narrative a true crime that the fictional narrative spirals out of. The way a split-decision from one man can spiral out of control and create a cascading series of events that destroy lives was so expertly crafted and explored in this novel, balancing the action and suspense of the novel’s crime element with the mystery and intrigue of the characters and the masterminds behind this criminal organization.

The character growth really was the heart of this narrative. They brought the crimes themselves to life so vividly and chillingly, and the author did a great job of showcasing that crimes are rarely about “good and evil”, but instead reside in a cascading series of shades of grey. As the “criminal” who began this journey was a simple man who took an opportunity and made a series of bad decisions as a result, to the mastermind behind the subsequent crimes, who readers would never have seen coming a mile away, each character feels well-rounded and realistic, while also drawing upon the genres to create entertaining and visceral reading experiences.

The Verdict

A brilliant, entertaining, and hauntingly-adventurous crime drama, author Gary Westphalen’s “Breaking the Weak Link” is a must-read drama of 2021. One of the fall’s best new crime dramas, the author has brought to life a gripping thriller that will have fans on the edge of their seats and the twisted finale will leave readers totally shocked. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Gary Westphalen has spent most life in pursuit of the truth. First as a journalist working for local television stations, then moving on to work for national news organizations, eventually finding himself as part of the White House reporting teams for a major television network, where he engaged in verbal sparring with every President from Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama.

He also found time to work as an independent documentary film-maker, garnering numerous major awards for his work. He went on to NASA, where he produced several major documentary productions for the space agency.

Gary’s next journalistic adventure was as publisher of a major motorcycle magazine.

Now, Gary finds himself living on a Pacific coast beach in Costa Rica, where he has reinvented himself yet again as as an author and audiobook narrator. His first two books have received great critical acclaim and the pipeline is full of upcoming books.

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https://www.facebook.com/gary.westphalen

Hollister McClane by Laurie Lisa Review

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

After stumbling into her first bank robbery, newly-formed criminal Hollister McClane takes readers on a journey of discovery, danger, and more in author Laurie Lisa’s “Hollister McClane”.

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The Synopsis

Hollister McClane is a small-town, southern Missouri, gorgeous (if she does say so herself) heroine who has a knack for accidentally robbing banks, a convenience store, and a possible drug cartel. She might inadvertently throw in a couple of grand theft autos, but truly, she wouldn’t hurt a fly–not even when that Ruger falls into her lap.

Savvy and self-taught, eternally optimistic and zealously patriotic, Hollister walks, runs, hitchhikes, and drives from one chance encounter to another across America’s heartland. After accidentally robbing her first bank dressed as Uncle Sam, Hollister sees her newfound life on the run as a matter of Fate. And it doesn’t hurt that she is a genius at disguises (if she does say so herself).

Hollister always tries to do the right thing with her newfound bounty, but somehow, it keeps slipping through her fingers. Also, there are a few obstacles along the way: the law, the lovers, the three not-quite-ex-husbands, the babies, and always, world-weary Mama. When Hollister finally does use that gun, unfortunately, she’s pointing it too close to home.

The Review

This was a truly engaging read. Author Laurie Lisa hits it out of the park once more, delving into the crime thriller genre with ease and finding the perfect balance of this genre with humor and charm. The theme of morality, and how desperation and miscommunication can easily lead someone down a dark and dangerous road made this story shine brightly.

Hollister McClane was a brilliant protagonist/antihero. The unique perspective of the character’s arc is fascinating to read, as the character gives a first-person POV as her journey into a life of crime grows deeper and deeper throughout the narrative. What is fascinating is seeing how the character rationalizes and frames the arc of her journey. From the moments trying to shed light on the path not taken, to the growth and experience she takes on as time moves forward, and even to the open-ended finale that highlights the character’s story, Hollister truly becomes the driving force of her own novel. 

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The Verdict

Something that author Laurie Lisa has done so well over the course of several books is creating relatable, realistic, and emotionally-driven reads that focus heavily on intricate character development, and Hollister McClane is no different. From the complex relationships with exes, her mother, and the law, to the balance of humorous observations on the protagonist’s part and the brilliant writing that showcases the author’s talent for fleshing out strong and unique characters, this novel, “Hollister McClane” by Laurie Lisa, is an instant smash hit! If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

The Light Tower Review
The Wine Club Review
Across the Street Review
Interview with Author Laurie Lisa

About the Author

Laurie was born and raised in Southern Illinois.  She obtained her B.S.in English Education from the University of Illinois, where she also met and then married her husband Steve. Laurie earned both an M.A. and a Ph.D. in English (20th-century American literature) from Arizona State University, where she also taught literature and composition. In addition to her novels, Laurie has published two academic books, several short stories and poems, and edited other’s works. After much time spent in Academia and raising her three children (Anthony, Michelle, and Caitlin), Laurie returned to her passion for writing fiction.  She is a prolific writer of contemporary upmarket women’s fiction and typically completes one novel each year. 

Laurie resides with her husband, Steve, in Paradise Valley and Flagstaff, Arizona.

https://laurielisa.com/

https://twitter.com/LaurieLisa

The Wine Club by Laurie Lisa Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews3 Comments

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

Two friends go down a dangerous path in order to provide for their daughters in author Laurie Lisa’s “The Wine Club”. 

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The Synopsis

Be ready to get hooked, with The Wine Club.

Most people can’t tell a good wine from a bottle of Two-Buck Chuck.

At least that’s what best friends Reggie and Audrey decide one night while celebrating their daughters’ election to the elite Mohave High Tigerette Pom Squad. But cheerleading in Scottsdale Arizona doesn’t come cheap, and both women are strapped for cash and going through a rough patch. Reggie’s husband has announced he’s gay and wants a separation. Audrey’s husband is entering rehab. But what if they could earn money by selling cheap wine in fancy bottles? How hard could it be?

As the housewives perfect their high-stakes con, their greed and mistrust of one another grow…as does the realization that they’ve become a small team of female criminals.

The Wine Club is a witty, wicked tale of crime in the suburbs. With its dark humor, twisted plot, creative use of satire, and female protagonists who turn to a life of crime, this women’s suspenseful crime novel filled with surprising twists and turns is a novel you won’t put down, and one your book club will love.

The Review

A truly fun yet twisted read. Author Laurie Lisa does an excellent job of setting the tone and pace for this novel early on, and blends family drama with corruption and crime thriller incredibly well. The way the author is able to showcase each character’s personal struggles adds depth and background to the cast of characters who help bring this story to life. 

Character growth and story play equal parts in this narrative, with the novel taking readers through twists and turns as this late-night money-making scheme turns into a full-blown crime drama like no other. The shocking twists to each of the women’s families and the growing actions each character finds themselves participating in showcase how greed and power can turn anyone into a completely different person.

The Verdict

Entertaining, witty yet delightfully wicked, author Laurie Lisa’s “The Wine Club” is a must-read crime drama. With a cast of relatable characters and themes such as sexuality, body image, and family becoming key factors in the actions of the two protagonists, readers won’t find themselves lacking any incredible drama to sink their teeth into. With a shocking final chapter, fans won’t want to miss another smash hit from author Laurie Lisa, so be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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Across the Street Review

About the Author

Laurie was born and raised in small towns in Southern Illinois. She obtained her B.S. in English Education from the University of Illinois, where she also met and then married her husband Steve. Laurie earned both a M.A. and a Ph.D. in English, 20th-century American Literature, from Arizona State University, where she also taught literature and composition. In addition to her eight novels, Laurie has published two academic books, several short stories and poems, and edited other’s works. After much time spent in Academia and raising her three children (Anthony, Michelle, and Caitlin), Laurie returned to her passion for writing fiction. She is a prolific writer and typically completes one novel each year. Laurie resides with her husband, Steve, in Paradise Valley and Flagstaff, Arizona.

https://laurielisa.com/

https://www.facebook.com/authorlaurielisa/

https://www.instagram.com/laurieolisa/

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Payback – Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge by Steve Bassett Review

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

Two homicide detectives in the late 40’s find themselves in over their heads when three victims tied to Hitler sympathizers are found with their bodies mutilated, and tensions begin running high both personally and professionally for the detectives in author Steve Bassett’s novel, “Payback – Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge”. 

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The Synopsis

Payback – Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge, the second book of the Passaic River Trilogy, is a drama so intense that it would be improbable anywhere but 1946 Newark. Across the country millions were dealing with the loss of loved ones, and horrible memories were being buried for the greater good. But not in Newark. Two mutilated bodies were pulled from the putrid Passaic River, and the sawed-off arm of a third man was found neatly wrapped and tied at the city dump. The three victims were members of the German-American Bund, Hitler lovers who had to pay the price for supporting a murderous madman. Someone was sending a message that only revenge could clear the mind and free the soul.

It didn’t take long for Police Lieutenant Nick Cisco and his partner, Sergeant Kevin McClosky, two veteran homicide cops [first introduced to readers in “Father Divine’s Bikes” the first book of the Trilogy], to realize they were in over their heads as they grappled with ambition, greed, racial tension, international intrigue, and a powerful church on the take. The three murders could not have come at a worse time for Cisco. His wife, Connie, had left him, and his close-knit Catholic family had disowned him because of his affair with his lover, Grace.

To add to the chaos, Cisco learned that he could have another homicide on his plate. Father Terry Nolan cornered Cisco at the city morgue and demanded his help. The senior counsel for M.L. Kraus, manufacturer of the poisonous gas Zyklon B, and his German wife were severely beating a Catholic orphan they were seeking to adopt. The Archdiocese had weighed Kraus’ huge cash contributions against a helpless girl’s plight and did nothing.

Kraus, facing a host of war crime indictments in Germany, was fighting for its massive pre-war chemical holdings in New Jersey. A federal court in Newark would soon decide Kraus’ fate. The outcome of the case would have a bearing not only on the company’s future, but Europe’s as well. Watching it all from the banks of the Passaic River was the dark specter of a murderous madman seeking further revenge.

The Review

A phenomenal story of grisly murders, tensions from a long fought and gruesome war, and so much more take center stage in this truly wonderful novel. The story echoes the great days of crime fiction and noir style storytelling, highlighting an era of upheaval and change in the United States and around the world in the wake of the Second World War. 

The novel focuses heavily on story through characterization. The book is filled with rich and diverse characters, each bringing their own set of problems and history that enhance the overall story and make the ongoing investigations and actions of other characters have much more emphasis on the overall story. Combined with the theme and genre of the story, this characterization draws the reader in immediately and gets the reader hooked on the action of the novel throughout every chapter. 

The Verdict

This is a must read crime fiction read of 2019. A high octane drama with in-depth character development and edge of your seat thrills, this novel is the perfect winter read for any fan of the crime thriller genre. Those who love the classic noir style storytelling will absolutely love this novel, and despite it being the second novel in a series, the reader will find this novel stands on its own and is easily able to be absorbed. An evenly paced read overall, be sure to grab your copies of “Payback – Tales of Love, Hate and Revenge” by Stephen Bassett today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born and raised in Newark’s crime-ridden Third Ward, although far removed during a career as a multiple award-winning journalist, Steve Bassett has always been the proud sobriquet Jersey Guy. He has been legally blind for almost a decade, but having this hasn’t slowed him down.

Bassett has written two nonfiction books, The Battered Rich and Golden Ghetto: How the Americans and French Fell In and Out of Love During the Cold War. Continuing with his newest fiction release, Father Divine’s Bikes (a Finalist in the 2018 International Book Award in the Cross-Genre Fiction category), readers share in his insights that earned him three Emmys for investigative documentaries, and the California Bar Association’s first Medallion Award for Distinguished Reporting on the Administration of Justice. He now resides in Placitas, New Mexico with his wife, Darlene.

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