Echoes of Fortune: Shadows Over Cozumel by David R. Leng Review

On November 11, 2025November 10, 2025 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 holiday dive turns into a history-changing mystery filled with danger in author David R. Leng’s “Echoes of Fortune: Shadows Over Cozumel.”

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The Synopsis

What would you risk to uncover a secret buried for over 150 years?

From bestselling and multi–award-winning author David R. Leng comes the next pulse-pounding installment in the Echoes of Fortune series.

When historian Jack Sullivan, Smithsonian curator Emma Wilson, and fellow former Navy SEAL Steve Johnson set out for a Thanksgiving dive off Cozumel, they expected nothing more than warm waters and forgotten wrecks. Instead, they uncover a Confederate ghost ship that vanished in 1865—along with a secret powerful enough to change history.

But they’re not alone. Shadowy mercenaries and a black-hulled yacht stalk their every move, determined to silence them before the truth surfaces. From dazzling reefs to the back alleys of Veracruz, Jack and his team are forced into a deadly game where history isn’t past—it’s a weapon.

Some secrets don’t want to be found. And some will kill to stay buried.

Perfect for fans of Steve Berry, Clive Cussler, Dan Brown, and James Rollins, Shadows Over Cozumel delivers nonstop action, historical intrigue, and a mystery that spans centuries.

The Review

For such a short novella, the author packs a lot of history and world-building into this narrative. The author expertly weaves mystery and intrigue into the modern-day adventure story, with a pacing that speaks to the story’s natural rhythm, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat and the tension on the page rising as these characters delve deeper into the mystery. The imagery in this story was so cinematic in its delivery, with details that brought the vibrant blues and greens of the ocean depths and the haunting shipwrecks to life effortlessly.

The dynamic between the three main characters and the engaging history were the main drives of this narrative. The exploration of Confederate soldiers’ weapons and gold has been the subject of numerous mysteries since the end of the Civil War. Yet, the ties into Mexico at the time and the idea of secret societies begun by these confederates, still being in play, added danger and suspense to the story. At the same time, the bond shared between Jack, Steve, and Emma not only showcases the bond that history can have on those seeking answers, but also highlights the hidden dangers of letting that sense of adventure become obsession.

The Verdict

Adrenaline-fueled, thrilling, and entertaining, author David R. Leng’s “Echoes of Fortune: Shadows Over Cozumel” is a must-read novella. The historical fiction series continues to expand and grow, not only with this fantastic cast of characters but also delivers a conspiracy and hidden history that would make for an excellent Netflix series, thanks to its dynamic and cinematic imagery, as well as the balance of action and character development. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

David is the Chief Risk Officer and Executive Partner of the Duncan Financial Group, a Faculty Member of the Institute of WorkComp Professionals, and author of the Amazon #1 International Best Business Books – The Laws of Insurance Attraction, Insured to Fail, and Turning Premiums Into Profits, as well as Stop Being Frustrated & Overcharged Year After Year (By Your Workers’ Compensation Program). David is a 30-year veteran of the Risk Management and Insurance industry. He is regarded as one of the brightest minds in the industry due to his unique Risk Profile Improvement Process, which identifies, controls, and reduces the risk factors inherent in any business that drive costs to an organization’s bottom line and hinder employee productivity. Since 2004, David has saved his clients well over sixty million dollars in premiums and overcharges.

With his passion for writing, David has written short stories for decades that family and friends have enjoyed. He has turned his focus to writing novels. Echoes of Fortune: The Search for Braddock’s Lost Gold is a multi-award-winning thriller that weaves mystery, suspense, and historical intrigue across centuries. Winner of the 2024 PenCraft Book Award for Best Thriller, 2nd place in Action & Adventure at the 2024 Book Fest Awards, a Gold Book Award from Literary Titan, and a #1 Amazon New Release in Mystery/Thriller (September 2024), this novel will keep you on the edge of your seat.

David was awarded the Advisor of the Year for 2008 by the Institute of WorkComp Professionals and is a frequent contributor to Dynamic Business, Environmental Health & Safety magazines, and has been published in several other periodicals and association newsletters.

David, who has 30 years experience specializing in Risk management and Workers’ Compensation, is an alumnus of Penn State where he received a Bachelor of Science in Insurance and Risk Management. His professional designations include Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Certified Risk Manager (CRM) and Charter Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Certified Benefits & Wellness Advisor (CBWA), and he’s been designated a Master Certified WorkComp Advisor (MWCA) and Certified WorkComp Advisor (CWCA) by the Institute of WorkComp Professionals.

David is also Co-Founder of Keystone CompControl, the nation’s largest single network of Workers’ Compensation specialists, and is one of only 14 nationwide Level-5 Advisors of the Institute of WorkComp Professionals. He has spoken nationally for the Hardwood Manufacturers Association as well as The Wood Products Manufacturing Association.

David is a frequent speaker for the Westmoreland HR Association, the National Workers’ Compensation Symposium, PA Society of Public Accountants, SMC Business Councils, as well as other organizations; and was added to the faculty of the Institute of WorkComp Professionals in 2012.

David spends his leisure time boating in the summer and skiing in the winter with his wife, Lynn, and their two children, Alizabeth and Luke. David and Lynn are active members of Emmaus and Autism Speaks, organizations that help support individuals with special needs, including their son Luke, who was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 18 months. David’s hobbies include woodworking and ice hockey, as well as donating considerable time to his local high school by helping to design and build sets for their musical productions.

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/echoes-of-fortune-david-leng/1148480652?ean=9798991093163

https://amzn.to/4nOA8oC

www.DavidLeng.com

The Washashore by Marshall Highet & Bird Jones Review

On May 28, 2025May 27, 2025 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.

In the Prohibition-era Martha’s Vineyard, a young woman forced to live with a mysterious Aunt must adjust to high society and discover the truth behind the disappearance of her Aunt’s friend in the novel The Washashore by Marshall Higher and Bird Jones.

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The Synopsis

Martha’s Vineyard, 1929. Prohibition is in full swing, and Emily, a Midwest transplant, has never met her wealthy Aunt Isabel. That is until, after her mother’s death, the courts declare Isabel her guardian. Their first meeting is a disaster. Emily’s clumsy curtsy earns her only a frosty glare, and she quickly realizes she’s in for a crash course in East Coast high society. But manners take a back seat to mystery when Isabel’s dear friend, an accomplished sailor, vanishes at sea. Convinced it’s murder, Isabel recruits her niece to catch the killer, pointing the finger at two dangerous men: a ruthless Mob boss and the fastest rumrunner in the harbor. While Emily crosses paths with gangsters on the island, she may just find home on its miles of coastline and among its quirky inhabitants-her stoic Aunt Isabel included.

The Review

This was such a profound and gripping mystery novel. The balance between historical fiction, mystery, and suspense was perfectly captured in this book. The intrigue and tension the authors built throughout the narrative feel like the perfect amount of atmosphere in the story, allowing the readers to get lost in the danger and violent nature of prohibition and the shocking realities that the lifestyle brought during that era.

The heart of this story is in the grand themes the authors explore and the rich character dynamics that show their evolution and progress throughout the novel. The relationship between Emily and Isabel, especially as readers begin to understand the losses they both endured and how that bridges the gap in both their societal upbringings and emotional connections, was so heartfelt and gripping, while the exploration of class systems during this historical period, the negative impact Prohibition had on society and organizzed crime alike, and the way others see us versus how we see ourselves were perfectly brought to life on the page.

The Verdict

With an atmosphere that fans of The Great Gatsby and Somewhere in Time will love and a mystery element that harkens back to the days of Agatha Christie novels or more recent films like Knives Out, authors Marshall Higher and Bird Jones’s “The Washashore” is a must-read historical fiction mystery. The twists and turns in the narrative will keep readers on the edge of their seat and the emotional character growth will keep readers invested in these strong protagonists that exude a sense of feminism in a time that didn’t often get to show feminism as a whole, a standout that made this novel feel even more potent in its writing style. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on June 10th, 2025 or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Authors

MARSHALL HIGHET is a professor and writer. Spare Parts—her YA sci-fi novel—was published in 2014 and has an educational bent, with science as its foundation. Hold Fast, written with Bird Jones, is a swashbuckling adventure with historical facts holding it up. Blue-Eyed Slave came out in 2022. Currently living in Baltimore, Marshall’s newest venture is brewing her own kombucha.

BIRD STASZ JONES holds a doctorate from Syracuse University and is a professor Emerita of Elon University. An ethnographer by training, her love of stories and story collecting has taken her from Appalachia to Central Asia. There she worked in collaboration with ministries of education, global donors and village teachers to support innovation in the literacy classroom. Awarded a Fulbright, she was able to visit and work in the farthest most school on the Afghan/Tajik border—literally the roof of the world. Bird has published in academic journals and spoken at conferences.

https://www.theothersideofthefire.com/washed-ashore

A Gilded Redwood Coffin (The Roddy and Val DeVere Gilded Age Series by Cecelia Tichi Review

On February 1, 2025 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 mission to save a young woman’s life turns into a twisted murder investigation in the Gilded Age in author Cecilia Tichi’s “A Gilded Redwood Coffin,” the latest entry in The Roddy and Val DeVere Gilded Age Series.

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The Synopsis

Western silver heiress Val DeVere expects nothing but joy at an elegant Newport picnic in 1899, only to be abruptly summoned to New York by a close friend’s urgent and cryptic plea: “PLEASE HELP…THEO B.”

In New York, Theo confides in Val, begging her to save his lively cousin Phoebe from a cunning Irish manservant who, he claims, is plotting her “accidental” death in the Rocky Mountains—just as he allegedly orchestrated the death of her twin sister in Boston a year earlier.

Determined to help her friend, Val, now Mrs. Roderick DeVere, tries to convince the headstrong Phoebe to delay her trip to the Rockies. Yet the Irish servant, whom Theo accuses of murder, reminds Val of her beloved late father, an Irish immigrant and “Silver King,” whose charm and brogue are unsettlingly familiar.

When Phoebe is found murdered in her New York apartment, suspicion falls squarely on the Irishman, appearing to wrap the case up neatly. But for Val, the truth feels far more elusive. Is she blinded by sentiment, or is there another killer lurking in the shadows? As doubt creeps in, Val faces a race against time to uncover the real culprit, all while risking arrest as an accessory to murder.

The Review

It is a genuinely tremendous and engaging read. The author does an excellent job of finding the means of balancing the high society background of Val’s character with the mystery and intrigue that the narrative provides. The imagery and atmosphere of the Gilded Age translate perfectly on the page, and the historical aspect of the setting draws the reader into the story more and more.

The character arcs in this novel were engaging. Val’s strength and resilience showcased her character’s overall growth throughout the series, yet the book allows new readers to jump into the story quickly. The haunting nature of the case and the shocking twists and turns the narrative takes will keep readers on the edge of their seats, eager for more adventures in this fantastic historical fiction thriller.

The Verdict

A brilliant fusion of high society meets gritty murder mystery, author Cecilia Tichi’s “A Gilded Redwood Coffin” is a must-read historical fiction meets mystery thriller. The twists and turns in the author’s story and how the narrative builds upon the character development of previous entries in the series will keep readers engaged throughout the narrative. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

AUTHOR LECTURER PROFESSOR

A fresh start for every new book, and author Cecelia Tichi’s zest for America’s Gilded Age and its boldface names draws this seasoned writer to a crime fiction series while uncorking the country’s cocktail cultures on the printed (and ebook) page. Tichi digs deep into the Vanderbilt University research library to mine the late 1800-1900s history and customs of Society’s “Four Hundred,” its drinks, and the ways high-stakes crimes in its midst make for a gripping “Gilded” mystery series that rings true to the tumultuous era. The decades of America’s industrial titans and “Queens” of Society have loomed large in Tichi’s books for several years, and the titles track her recent projects:

Civic Passions: Seven Who Launched Progressive America (and What They Teach Us)

Jack London: A Writer’s Fight for a Better America

What Would Mrs. Astor Do? A Complete Guide to the Manners and Mores of the Gilded Age

Gilded Age Cocktails: History, Lore, and Recipes from the Golden Age

Jazz Age Cocktails: History, Lore, and Recipes from the Roaring Twenties

A Gilded Death (crime fiction)

Murder, Murder, Murder in Gilded Central Park (crime fiction)

A Fatal Gilded High Note (crime fiction)

COMING SOON IN THE ‘GILDED’ CRIME SERIES:

A Gilded Free Fall.

She enjoys membership and posting in Facebook’s The Gilded Age Society. You can read more about her work by visiting www.cecebooks.com.

Echoes of Fortune: The Search for Braddock’s Lost Gold by David R. Leng Review

On October 6, 2024October 7, 2024 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 Navy officer turned History professor faces a swarm of adversaries chasing the hidden treasure of a French and Indian War era general in author David R. Leng’s “Echoes of Fortune: The Search for Braddock’s Lost Gold”.

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The Synopsis

The race is on! A Gripping Historical Thriller Full of Action, Mystery, and Suspense.

Dive into a whirlwind of adventure, mystery, and danger with Echoes of Fortune, a historical thriller that will leave you breathless. Jack Sullivan, a history professor and former Navy officer with a knack for unearthing the past, stumbles upon a clue that might lead to General Braddock’s legendary lost treasure of 1755: gold to pay the troops and secure Native American allies.

Join Jack and his friends as they race against time and relentless and aggressive adversaries and embark on a dangerous quest to uncover the legendary treasure. Follow them as they decipher cryptic codes and navigate deadly traps. With danger lurking around every corner, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Discover a heart-pounding story filled with a mix of history, action, treasure hunting, and loyalty, with a touch of romance, where ancient codes and modern-day dangers collide. Will Jack and his friends’ loyalty successfully withstand the ultimate test, or will the pursuit of wealth cost them everything, including their lives?

For fans of historical thrillers, action-packed adventures, and suspense-filled mysteries, Echoes of Fortune seamlessly blends stories of the past and present. If you enjoy books by Clive Cussler or Dan Brown, this tale of codes, loyalty, treasure, and intrigue will keep you hooked until the very last page. Dive into a world where treasure hunting meets mystery and espionage, where heroism, loyalty, and sacrifice are tested. Experience the adventure of a lifetime—get your copy today!

The Review

What an engaging and thrilling historical fiction meets action adventure read. The author does a fantastic job of finding the right balance between the historical background that this mystery is based on and the modern-day adventure that sees the hunt for the treasure takes place. The reader gets a historical perspective of the events that led to this adventure and the mystery that drives many people in our modern era to search for hidden treasures and historical artifacts.

The themes this story explores and the rich character development allow for a more remarkable and connecting tale for readers. The author’s ability to infuse themes of loyalty, a sense of duty, and the cost to people at the expense of a person’s ambition was profoundly felt. The rich character dynamics allowed for tense interactions and deep personal growth within the characters. The imagery used in the author’s writing brought these locations and the historical background to life perfectly.

The Verdict

Thrilling, memorable, and entertaining author David R. Leng’s “Echoes of Fortune” is a must-read historical fiction thriller. The attention to detail, solid historical presence in the main story, and twists and turns in the overall narrative will keep readers invested in this author’s breathtaking tale. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

David R. Leng is the author of the International #1 Best Sellers – Insured to Fail, The 10 Laws of Insurance Attraction and Turning Premiums Into Profits, as well as Stop Being Frustrated & Overcharged By Your Workers’ Compensation Program. He is an accomplished and well know speaker, and performs as a Certified Risk Manager to many employers. David is also Executive Vice President and Partner of the Duncan Financial Group – he is a 30 year veteran of the Risk Management and Insurance industry and is regarded as one of the brightest minds in the industry due to his unique Risk Profile Improvement Process, which identifies, controls and reduces the risk factors inherent in any business that drive costs to an organization’s bottom line and hinders employee productivity. Since 2004, David has saved his clients well over $42,000,000 in premiums and overcharges.

David, who has 16 years’ experience specializing in Risk Management, is an alumnus of Penn State where he received a Bachelor of Science in Insurance and Risk Management. His professional designations include Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), Certified Risk Manager (CRM) and Charter Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Certified Benefits & Wellness Advisor (CBWA), and he’s been designated a Certified WorkComp Advisor (CWCA) by the Institute of WorkComp Professionals.

David is a frequent speaker for the Hardwood Manufacturers Association, Wood Products Manufacturing Association, National Workers’ Compensation Symposium, PA Society of Public Accountants, SMC Business Councils, Westmoreland HR Association, as well as other organizations; and was added to the faculty of the Institute of WorkComp Professionals in 2012.

David spends his leisure time boating in the summer and skiing in the winter with his wife, Lynn, and their two children. David and Lynn are active members of Emmaus and Autism Speaks, organizations that help support individuals with special needs, including their son, who was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 18 months.

David’s hobbies include woodworking and ice hockey, as well as donating considerable time to his local high school by helping to design and build sets for their musical productions.

David can be contacted at (724) 863-3420 ext. 3329 (toll free at 888-383-3420 ext. 3329), or emailed at dleng@duncangrp.com.

https://davidleng.com

Death in a Gilded Frame by Cecelia Tichi Review

On December 29, 2023 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 Western silver heiress gets embroiled in a dark murder mystery in author Cecelia Tichi’s “Death in a Gilded Frame”.

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The Synopsis

Newport Summer 1899—yachts, balls, and famed artists eager to paint portraits of Society’s “Queens.”

Western silver heiress Val Mackle DeVere (Mrs. Roderick W.) agrees to “sit” for a portrait for her beloved Roddy, only to stumble on a scene of bloody, grisly homicide at an art gallery.

Like a figure from Pompeii, the dead Newport gallery manager screams in silence, his hands like claws clutching at a gilt frame pulled down over his head and shoulders while blood darkens his cream-colored suit.

Impulsive, Val reaches for the murder weapon and will find herself suspected, shamed, and shunned as she seeks the killer while learning yet again a lesson taught by Cornelius Vanderbilt IV: “No city on earth is as hostile to outsiders as Newport.”

The Review

This was a fun and engaging historical fiction meets mystery drama. The author found the perfect balance in the story between examining “high society” within communities such as Newport and honing in on the narrative’s mystery and thriller aspects. The creative way the author infused drink recipes into the narrative for readers to enjoy through one of the main characters was also inspired, as it allowed the reader to really become invested in the story.

The heart of the narrative rests in the solid historical accuracy of how society and the world viewed women and their role in that era, with the solid and engaging character growth of the protagonist and those around her. The setting and imagery in the author’s writing highlighted this time period well, and the way the protagonist has to battle her way through both suspicion and social shame to regain her status and catch a killer in the process will have readers enthralled with this novel.

The Verdict

With iconic storytelling, rich character development, and entertaining world-building at its finest, author Cecelia Tichi’s “Death in a Gilded Frame” is a must-read historical fiction novel that you don’t want to miss. The twists, turns, and shocking revelations are just a tiny part of the glamour and appeal readers will find in this historical piece, and the dynamic way the author brings readers into this era will leave readers wanting more. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

A fresh start for every new book, and author Tichi’s zest for America’s Gilded Age and its boldface names draws this seasoned writer to a crime fiction series while uncorking the country’s cocktail cultures on the printed page. Tichi digs deep into the Vanderbilt University research library to mine the late 1800-1900s history and customs of Society’s “Four Hundred,” its drinks, and the ways high-stakes crimes in its midst make for a gripping “Gilded” mystery series that rings true to the tumultuous era. The decades of America’s industrial titans and “Queens” of Society have loomed large in Tichi’s books for several years, and the titles track her recent projects:

Civic Passions: Seven Who Launched Progressive America (and What They Teach Us)
Jack London: A Writer’s Fight for a Better America
What Would Mrs. Astor Do? A Complete Guide to the Manners and Mores of the Gilded Age
Gilded Age Cocktails: History, Lore, and Recipes from the Golden Age
Jazz Age Cocktails: History, Lore, and Recipes from the Roaring Twenties.
A Gilded Death (crime fiction)
Murder, Murder, Murder in Gilded Central Park (crime fiction)
A Fatal Gilded High Note (crime fiction)
A Deadly Gilded Free Fall (crime fiction)
A Gilded Drowning Pool (crime fiction)
Death in a Gilded Frame (crime fiction)

She enjoys membership and posting in Facebook’s The Gilded Age Society. You can read more about Cecelia by visiting her Wikipedia page at: https://bit.ly/Tichiwiki or her website: https://cecebooks.com.

Interview with Scott Kauffman

On March 15, 2022October 14, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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

My fiction career began with an in-class book report written in Mrs. Baer’s eighth-grade English class when, due to a conflict of priorities, I failed to read the book, necessitating an exercise of the imagination. Not only was I not found out, but I snagged a B, better than the C that I received on my last report when I actually read the book. Thus began my life-long apprenticeship as a teller of tales and, some would snidely suggest, as a lawyer as well, but they would be cynics, a race Oscar Wilde warned us knew the price of everything and the value of nothing.

I am the author of the legal-suspense novel, In Deepest Consequences (Medallion Press), loosely drawn on two murder cases from earlier in my career, and the coming-of-age novel Revenants, The Odyssey Home (Moonshine Cove Publishing). I am a recipient of the Mighty River Short Story Contest and the Hackney Literary Award. My short fiction has appeared in Big Muddy, Adelaide Magazine, and Lascaux Review. I will admit to being an attorney in Irvine, California, where my practice focuses upon white-collar crime and tax litigation with my clients providing me endless story fodder. I graduated summa cum laude from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, (where Walter Tevis, author of Queen’s Gambit, was my first fiction professor) and in the upper ten percent of my class from Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland, Oregon, where I was a member of the Environmental Law Review and received the American Jurisprudence Award in Conflict of Laws. I can be found at www.scottkauffman.net.

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2) What inspired you to write your book?

As I said above, my first novel In Deepest Consequences was loosely based upon two murder cases from earlier in my career. Revenants, The Odyssey Home, was drawn from the death of my late-wife’s uncle in Viet Nam, who is the only member of an MIA recovery team known to have died in combat. My inspiration for Saving Thomas was seeded in a general revulsion arising during some or another election campaign at those politicians who may have served but then try to get elected by trafficking in the dead who never came home. So I started to ask myself a series of what if questions. Such as what if someone had served and suffered but was honor bound never to reveal he had served and suffered and because of it suffered all the more? Which lead to more what if questions. The end result of all these what ifs the book you read and reviewed.

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

Saving Thomas explores the age-old themes harking back to the Old Testament and Homer of betrayal, redemption, and ultimate forgiveness. All of us have been betrayed in our lives by those we love. All of us in turn have betrayed those we love. But if we are to come to terms with our betrayals, both those suffered and inflicted, we must move beyond a shattered trust to commence anew. Hope will reveal itself when we reaffirm those bonds of commitment, and it is in our finding a way forward where forgiveness will be found.

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

I don’t consider myself a genre writer. When a story with legs comes to me, I write it not caring where Barnes & Noble will shelve it. Having said that, I think it was Nietzsche who said melodrama is right versus wrong whereas tragedy is right versus right with no good outcome. I am drawn to tragedies.

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

My villain, Erec Renard. This guy has to have at least a dozen stories to keep a writer employed.

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

Twitter and Instagram.

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

Learn from other writers. Revise, revise, revise, then revise some more. Master the rules of Greek rhetoric passed on down to the Romans, lost in the Dark Ages, resurrected during the Renaissance, and rediscovered in England just about the time Shakespeare was penning his plays and King James’s scribes were translating the Bible into English and give their works so much power, mimicking the power of Bach and Handel through repetition and point/counter point. Power you can hear in Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and Martin Luther King’s I Have a Dream. Perhaps most importantly, remember that being published is someone else’s call. It’s impossible to know what to write to please those someones and may not be where your writing comes from. But someone’s first book changed you. Know there are others waiting for yours.

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

Next up, Finding Forest: A death-row attorney walks the murderous streets of East Oakland by night searching for the family of the executed client he betrayed twenty-four years before.

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Saving Thomas REVIEW

About the Author

Scott is an attorney in Irvine, California, where his practice focuses upon white-collar crime with his clients providing him endless story fodder. His short story “Cat Dance” was short-listed for the 2018 Adelaide Literary Award. He is the author of the coming-of-age novel Revenants, The Odyssey Home (Moonshine Cove Publishing) and the legal-suspense novel, In Deepest Consequences (Medallion Press) and is the recipient of the Mighty River Short Story Contest and the Hackney Literary Award. His short fiction has appeared in Big Muddy, Adelaide Magazine, and Lascaux Review.

Website:www.scottkauffman.net

Publisher: https://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kauffman_scott

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottkauffmanauthor/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Scott-Kauffman-Author-402186853680261/

Author Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3234487.Scott_Kauffman

Book Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59610226-saving-thomas?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=81e5CNjnYi&rank=1

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Saving-Thomas-Scott-Kauffman/dp/1509238638/ref=sr_1_2?adid=082VK13VJJCZTQYGWWCZ&campaign=211041&creative=374001&keywords=Saving+Thomas&qid=1646075976&s=books&sr=1-2

The Order by John-Patrick Bayle Review

On March 4, 2022March 3, 2022 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.

The discovery of a mysterious manuscript puts a novice monk into the perilous journey none would have seen coming in author John-Patrick Bayle’s “The Order”.

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The Synopsis

1513, France -An ancient origin. A secret society. A long anticipated birth has come to pass. The news spreads in a hushed wave throughout the world. It has begun.Armies move while nations sleep, and one of human history’s greatest movements teeters on the edge of collapse. The Order is a gripping tale of deception, secrecy, cruelty, and a man whose faith stands firm in the face of it all.

The Review

The pacing and tone of the narrative were so well balanced. The way author was able to capture the atmosphere and behavior of the monks early into the story while infusing mystery and intrigue to keep the stakes of the mission alive. The tension that the author infused into the narrative was felt heavily in the story, as the brotherhood that the author established early on took some twists that made the protagonist force himself to view the world a bit more warily, while also struggling with his views and trusting nature.

The two biggest things that stood out to me in this narrative were the wealth of character development and the brilliant infusion of history into the story. The way in which the protagonist relates to these characters and must traverse this shadowy world and organization within such a turbulent point in the 16th century was so captivating to read. The emotions that this character underwent on this transformative journey only added more depth to the action and battles that the narrative took later on in the story.

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The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and hauntingly intriguing historical fiction, author John-Patrick Bayle’s “The Order” is a must-read novel! The fantastic blend of mystery and history is always such a plus for me as a reader and the engaging way the author delved into the man underneath the monk’s hood and the hood’s representation as a whole during this chaotic time period while also uncovering the mysteries of the narrative made for a story that could not be put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Saving Thomas by Scott Kauffman Review

On February 21, 2022February 21, 2022 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 reporter still reeling from his wife’s death finds himself confronted by the past when someone he met in his childhood resurfaces as a war hero from WWII, and he must uncover the mysteries behind the man’s service and his identity in an effort to recover a lost friendship and save his job in the process in author Scott Kauffman’s “Saving Thomas”.

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The Synopsis

After his wife’s death, reporter Jeremy Michaels concentrates on writing news stories that try to bring justice to the underdogs of the world, until an announcement by Buckingham Palace shatters his glass cocoon. The village hermit from the hometown Jeremy fled is to be knighted for still-classified services during World War II, a man Jeremy knows well from a certain childhood adventure.

The editor of the newspaper Jeremy writes for sends him back home to find out why, but he is scooped by the hometown paper’s revelation that the man worked inside the French Resistance. Yet the knighthood is refused, and Jeremy’s chance to save his job—and an old friendship—lies in discovering the truth.

The Review

The balance and engagement the author made with the reader throughout this novel were incredible. The attention to realism when it came to the memories and events of the war and the psychological and emotional impact it left on characters was so eloquently crafted, as was the cruelty and vicious nature of war in general. The imagery played a heavy hand in these scenes, as did the contrast between that dark past and the struggles of the more modern age.

The characters were the true heart of this narrative. The emotional struggles within protagonist Jeremy were so painful yet honest to approach, as his struggles with his wife’s loss mixed with his need to find the truth and the conflict over his childhood events. Thomas’s vision and POV really honed in on the war narrative, and the toll it takes on a person when confronted with that haunting past. Yet it was how these characters found one another, came together, and both the strengths each had and the pitfalls they found as time went on that made this narrative so engrossing.

The Verdict

Haunting, brilliantly written, and entertaining in its delivery, author Scott Kauffman’s “Saving Thomas” is a must-read novel of 2022 for fans of historical mysteries. The layered path readers had to take to uncover the mystery was well-paced and did a great job of balancing the history with the mystery itself. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

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About the Author

Scott claims his fiction career began with a in-class book report written in Mrs. Baer’s eighth-grade English class when, due to a conflict of priorities, he failed to read the book. An exercise of imagination was required. Scott snagged a B, better than the C he received on his last report when he actually read the book. Thus began his life-long apprenticeship as a teller of tales and, some would snidely suggest, as a lawyer as well, but they would be cynics, a race Oscar Wilde warned us knew the price of everything and the value of nothing. Scott is the author of the legal-suspense novel, In Deepest Consequences, and a recipient of the 2011 Mighty River Short Story Contest and the 2010 Hackney Literary Award. His short fiction has been appeared in Big Muddy, Adelaide Magazine, and Lascaux Review. He is now at work on two novel manuscripts and a collection of short stories. He is an attorney in Irvine, California, where his practice focuses upon white-collar crime and tax litigation with his clients providing him endless story fodder. He graduated summa cum laude from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, and in the upper ten percent of his class from Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland, Oregon, where he was a member of the Environmental Law Review and received the American Jurisprudence Award in Conflict of Laws.

https://scottkauffman.net/

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A Death in Bloomsbury (The Simon Sampson Mysteries #1) by David C. Dawson Review

On November 24, 2021November 22, 2021 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 renowned BBC Radio host and investigator must put his loyalty to the King of England to the test in 1930’s London as a plot to assassinate the King forces Simon Sampson to investigate, but at the risk of exposing his secret life as a gay man in a time when being gay meant facing prison time in the country in author David C. Dawson’s “A Death in Bloomsbury”, the first in the Simon Sampson Mysteries series.

The Synopsis

Everyone has secrets… but some are fatal.

1932, London. Late one December night Simon Sampson stumbles across the body of a woman in an alleyway. Her death is linked to a plot by right-wing extremists to assassinate the King on Christmas Day. Simon resolves to do his patriotic duty and unmask the traitors.

But Simon Sampson lives a double life. Not only is he a highly respected BBC radio announcer, but he’s also a man who loves men, and as such must live a secret life. His investigation risks revealing his other life and with that imprisonment under Britain’s draconian homophobic laws of the time. He faces a stark choice: his loyalty to the King or his freedom.

This is the first in a new series from award-winning author David C. Dawson. A richly atmospheric novel set in the shadowy world of 1930s London, where secrets are commonplace, and no one is quite who they seem.

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The Review

This was such a captivating and thought-provoking read. The author’s utilization of mystery and historical fiction was superb, showcasing a clear understanding and attention to detail historically that showed the amount of research that went into this narrative. The balance the author found with the history behind this intriguing mystery and the LGBTQ cast of characters that made up the novel’s main cast was so refreshing and fantastic to read.

What stood out to me was definitely the emphasis on the LGBTQ narratives, not only the characters as a whole but their experiences and the amount of secrecy that went into leading what was considered back then to be a “double life”. The way this mirrored so much of the novel’s noir and espionage elements within the mystery unfolding around the characters was perfect, and the emotional ups and downs the protagonist, in particular, went through all the way to the book’s final pages was so emotional to read.

The Verdict

A thoughtful, gripping, and entertaining read, author David C. Dawson’s “A Death in Bloomsbury” is a must-read mystery and historical fiction thriller this fall! The representation within the cast of characters and the struggles the LGBTQ community faced nearly a century ago was perfectly balanced the twists and turns in the book’s mystery, and the cliffhanger ending will leave readers eager to read more of this exciting new series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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David C. Dawson has a new gay historical crime thriller out: A Death in Bloomsbury. And there’s a giveaway!

Everyone has secrets… but some are fatal.

About the Series

The Simon Sampson Mysteries start in London 1932 and continue through the 1930s across Europe. Set against the rise of fascism in the continent, the series features a man who does his patriotic duty to fight the enemy, even though as a gay man he’s an outlaw.

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Giveaway

David is giving away a $20 Amazon gift card with this tour:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Direct Link: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/b60e8d47212/?

Excerpt

Simon arrived at Piccadilly Circus at ten minutes to eight that evening and waited to cross the road to the statue of Eros on its traffic island. This part of London always gave Simon a thrill of excitement. It buzzed with activity, like a giant beehive. There were swarms of people hurrying from work, or strolling towards a restaurant, theatre or bar. The metaphor was apt, because within fifty yards of where Simon stood there were so many queens.

Across the road was The Trocadero. Its Long Bar was always guaranteed to provide a gay evening for gentlemen in search of pleasure. A little farther on was the Empire Theatre in Leicester Square. Its Upper Gallery was popular with painted boys and men dressed in smart suits who spent an evening either exchanging acid-tongued witticisms or seeking a friend for the night.

Even at that time of the evening the traffic on Piccadilly Circus was almost stationary. Simon stepped off the pavement and wove his way between taxis and omnibuses queuing to drive up Shaftesbury Avenue or down the Haymarket. Cameron was waiting for him, and Simon was pleased to see he was once again soberly dressed in his immaculate black coat. This time with a grey scarf and black leather gloves. Young men of a similar age to Cameron were also standing on the steps of Eros, and they wore far more flamboyant clothing. Simon preferred to be inconspicuous when out with a gentleman friend. There was less chance that they might draw the attention of the police, or busys as his friends in the Fitzroy Tavern would call them.

“I do hope you’ve not been waiting long.” Simon took Cameron’s outstretched hand and squeezed it firmly. “It’s getting awfully cold. I think it might snow this Christmas.”

Cameron reached out his other hand and rested it on Simon’s hip. Simon pushed it away. “Best not here, old chap,” he whispered. “Awfully public you know.”

He released Cameron’s hand and pointed across the road. “We need to head towards Leicester Square. The Lily Pond is two roads up. And we can walk past the Trocadero on the way and see who’s out gadding tonight.”

“I’m glad I’m wi’ ye,” Cameron replied. “I’m still finding ma bearin’s in London. I’ve nae come down to this part of town since I moved to York House.”

“Oh, you should.” Simon led the way through the still stationary traffic to Coventry Street. “It’s frightfully exciting. And you can always be sure of meeting someone interesting.” He pointed to the corner of Glasshouse Street. “That’s the Regent Palace Hotel. Awfully good bar. Perfect place to meet gentlemen from overseas, and they can hire a room for you by the hour if that interests you.” He grabbed Cameron’s arm and pulled him to safety as a motor car attempted to circumvent the traffic jam and drove up onto the pavement.

“Try not to get yourself killed, my dear.”

Author Bio

David C. Dawson is an award-winning author, journalist and documentary maker. He writes gay romance and contemporary thrillers featuring gay heroes in love.

His latest book The Foreign Affair was published in 2020. It’s the third in the Delingpole Mysteries series.

The first in the series: The Necessary Deaths, won an FAPA award in the best suspense/thriller category.

David’s also written two gay romances: For the Love of Luke and Heroes in Love.

He lives near Oxford, with his boyfriend and two cats. In his spare time, he tours Europe and sings with the London Gay Men’s Chorus.

Author Website: https://www.davidcdawson.co.uk

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