Tag: supernatural thriller

The Great Dick And The Dysfunction Demon by Barry Maher 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 failed songwriter on the run finds himself ensnared in a chilling supernatural conspiracy in author Barry Maher’s “The Great Dick and the Dysfunction Demon.”

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The Synopsis

It’s 1982. Steve Witowski, a failed songwriter on the run from the law, finds himself caught in a supernatural thriller after an apparently innocent act of heroism—saving a woman from a vicious assault by a seemingly unstoppable wino. The woman, Victoria, is just part of a mystery Steve can’t unravel. Even as he’s looting the decomposing dead for the secrets of a self-proclaimed sorcerer. Even as he plummets into a nightmare of fire and blood and murder. Even then, Steve remains certain the sorcerer’s spells, the occult rituals—the supposed demons and supernatural horror—are simply delusion and fantasy. Steve is wrong.

Victoria, who has just bought a dilapidated church with a haunting past, entangles Steve in a deadly game of dark magic and rituals. As,unknown to him, the demon grows desperate, Steve plunges deeper into a world of crypts, grave robbing, and long-forgotten secrets, all while trying to escape his own haunted past. But when the face of the man Steve killed appears on his arm, the line between reality and nightmare begins to blur.

This supernatural novel will leave you on the edge of your seat, with wickedly funny dark humor and, ultimately, pulse-pounding suspense, as Steve and Victoria navigate a twisted adventure full of occult horror, supernatural suspense, and shocking revelations.

The Review

This was a fantastic horror novel. The author did an incredible job of capturing the campy 80s supernatural and occult vibes that the genre was known for during that era, while also infusing humor and wit into the character arcs and dialogue. The suspense plays well in this narrative, initially seeming more like a thriller before slowly peeling back the layers and delving into the dark heart of characters readers have known throughout their lives. 

The dynamic character development and supernatural mythology explored in the book are what make it so engaging. The book delves into occult rituals and witchcraft lore, while also blending psychological horror and other elements into the narrative. The story is very adult-driven, with bloody imagery and heated sexual tension laced throughout the narrative, and the climactic final chapters will keep readers tense as these characters come crashing together in ways no one could have seen coming.

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The Verdict

Dynamic, entertaining, and compelling, author Barry Maher’s “The Great Dick and the Dysfunctional Demon” is a must-read campy horror and occult novel. The twists and turns, the chilling atmosphere, and the captivating characters will blend well into the upcoming spooky season and do well with audiences who are rediscovering films such as Witchboard this holiday season. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Barry Maher’s career has been anything but ordinary. He’s been an award-winning (if modestly so) poet, a magazine writer with bylines across the country, a speaker for some of the world’s largest corporations, and a man who once lived literally on the beach, seagulls and all. His syndicated column Slightly Off-Kilter and his darkly comic fiction reflect that same unpredictable spirit. Media appearances range from The Today Show to CNBC, with features in The Wall Street Journal and even Funeral Service Insider. Connect with him at BarryMaher.com or on Facebook.

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Rune of Destiny (Outside the Thalsparr Series Book 3) by Bjorn Leesson 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 battle being waged across time and space, as well as in the lands of the living and the dead, will determine the fate of both the light and the dark in author Bjorn Leesson’s “Rune of Destiny”, the third book in the Outside the Thalsparr series.

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The Synopsis

The Dokkrsdottir is not your ordinary Norse woman of the Viking age. One of the great warriors of her time, she soon learns that the hardest battles are not always those fought with a sword and shield. Through countless trials and tests, she is led by visions and omens on numerous adventures with the help of steadfast friends and family to discover her mysterious supernatural destiny, one more extraordinary than anyone could ever have imagined.

Rune of Destiny Summary:

The final chapter of the main story of the Dokkrsdottir’s destiny that finds the continuation of the living world in the hands of Myrgjol, her descendants, and the choices they all must make.

With battles of the “greatest warrrior” transpiring on both sides of the veil, it is a series of desperate and grueling battles to the very end before she can enjoy her reward with the knowledge that the living world will continue in the loving embrace of the Light and not in ruin by the Dark.

The Review

The scale and engaging setting stood out in this story. The author did an incredible job of bringing both the physical and spiritual worlds to life on the page, showcasing the imagery in the author’s writing as they shifted between the jumps in periods and showcased Dokkrsdottir’s life on the other side of the veil. The balance of threats that the protagonists faced was excellent as well, as the human threats perfectly paralleled the different forces of darkness that pursued them, especially the Thule Society and their hunt for gateways around the world.

While the series has become known for some great action, this novel added more depth to the spiritual nature of the narrative os well. The world knows the protagonist in this story as a proud and strong warrior. Still, the novel takes the time to reveal those vulnerable moments that the protagonist experiences, from being reunited with lost loved ones to making peace with being separated from others she loves in her family, and much more. The mythos and culture of Viking history were well represented here. The protagonist’s connection to her family, loved ones, and people allowed the reader to connect to the story on a much grander scale.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author Bjorn Leesson’s “Rune of Destiny” is a must-read supernatural thriller meets historical fiction novel. The twists and turns in the story, the cosmic journey the characters find themselves on, and the heartfelt connection readers will share with the protagonist will keep them enthralled as they await the next entry in this series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Bjorn Leesson has always been fascinated with many topics to include history, the supernatural, and writing. These interests combined led to the Outside the Thalsparr series, with the first book in the series, “Runes of the Dokkrsdottir.” Bjorn was not formally trained as a writer and has worked in the industrial manufacturing field his entire life. Writing his stories and hoping others enjoy them is a passion and not a career.

Cops & Clobbers in Deadwood (Deadwood Humorous Mystery Book 14) by Ann Charles 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 heist to unload 80-plus mystical clocks from a detective to evade the grim reaper turns into chaos in author Ann Charles’s “Cops & Clobbers in Deadwood,” the latest entry in the Deadwood Humorous Mystery series. 

The Synopsis

Violet Parker has big troubles these days—the ticking kind. To duck the Grim Reaper, she needs to get her hands on eighty-plus rare, mystical clocks locked up tight by a thick-headed detective.

The solution? Hijack the truckload of ticking time bombs out from under Johnny Law’s nose.

But no caper ever goes according to plan. What starts out as a game of clocks and robbers twists and turns into a chaos of cops and clobbers.

Will Violet beat the detective in time? Or will she spend Valentine’s Day behind bars?

The Review

What a fun and engaging supernatural meets humor thriller. The natural way the author was able to infuse the supernatural world into this series showcases the depth of world-building and mythology the author was able to layer throughout the narrative. The author’s writing style’s imagery made the reader feel transported into the story effortlessly. It gave readers the fast-paced adrenaline that this series has become synonymous with.

Of course, the highlight of this narrative was the character-driven narrative and the humor the author brought to these characters. Including deep-cut mythological figures and items such as poppets and how the author brought these items into a modern-day heist setting was fun and engaging for a reader to get lost in.

The Verdict

Memorable, witty, and entertaining author Ann Charles’s “Cops & Clobber in Deadwood” is a must-read supernatural thriller meets humorous heist read. The twists and turns in the story and the continuous character growth of the protagonist and her posse allow the reader to quickly hone in on the fun and charm the series banks on. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Ann Charles is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes award-winning books that are splashed with humor, mystery, suspense, romance, supernatural elements, and whatever else sounds fun. 

Currently, she has many fiction books available in several different on-going series. 

From her ongoing multi-award winning Deadwood Mystery Series:

NEARLY DEPARTED IN DEADWOOD (book 1–multiple award-winning book for both mystery and romance/mystery); 

OPTICAL DELUSIONS IN DEADWOOD (book 2); 

DEAD CASE IN DEADWOOD (book 3-one of Suspense Magazine’s BEST OF 2012 books); 

BETTER OFF DEAD IN DEADWOOD (book 4); 

AN EX TO GRIND IN DEADWOOD (book 5–Grand Prize winner in Chanticleer Review’s Paranormal category; 

MEANWHILE, BACK IN DEADWOOD (book 6–one of Suspense Magazine’s BEST OF 2015 books);

A WILD FRIGHT IN DEADWOOD (book 7–one of Suspense Magazine’s BEST OF 2016 books); 

RATTLING THE HEAD IN DEADWOOD (book 8)

GONE HAUNTING IN DEADWOOD (book 9)

DON’T LET IT SNOW IN DEADWOOD (book 10)

DEVIL DAYS IN DEADWOOD (book 11)

NEVER SAY SEVER IN DEADWOOD (book 12)

TIMEREAPING IN DEADWOOD (book 13)

Also available from Ann in her on-going Jackrabbit Junction Mystery Series: 

DANCE OF THE WINNEBAGOS (book 1)

JACKRABBIT JUNCTION JITTERS (book 2)

THE GREAT JACKALOPE STAMPEDE (book 3)

THE ROWDY COYOTE RUMBLE (book 4)

A Thanksgiving novella titled, THE WILD TURKEY TANGO (book 4.5)

A Christmas novella titled, JACKRABBIT JINGLE BALLS (book 4.7)

IN CAHOOTS WITH THE PRICKLY PEAR POSSE (book 5)

TWISTY TORTOISE TUSSLES (book 6)

LOOK WHAT THE WIND BLEW IN (book 1) and MAKE NO BONES ABOUT IT (book 2), the first two books in her on-going Dig Site Mystery-Archaeology series set in the Maya jungle, are available on Amazon, too. These books star Quint Parker, the brother of Violet Parker–the heroine in her Deadwood Mystery series. They are filled with mystery, humor, adventure, and a plenty of heat.

She has a western paranormal Deadwood Undertaker Series in process that is co-written with Sam Lucky:

LIFE AT THE COFFIN JOINT (book 1)

A LONG WAY FROM ORDINARY (book 2

CAN’T RIDE AROUND IT (book 3)

CATAWAMPUS CHRISTMAS CAROL (book 3.5)

THE BACKSIDE OF HADES (book 4)

She has several short stories as well–DEADWOOD SHORTS: SEEING TROUBLE (book 1.5), BOOT POINTS (book 4.5), COLD FLAME (book 6.5), TEQUILA & TIME (book 8.5), and FATAL TRADITIONS (book 10.5). These are all short stories from her Deadwood Mystery Series. Also, she has THE OLD MAN’S BACK IN TOWN, a short story from her future Goldwash Mystery Series.

In addition, Ann has two novellas in the AC Silly Circus Co. Mystery series: FERAL-LY FUNNY FREAKSHOW and A BUNCH OF MONKEY MALARKEY.

Stay tuned for more new books by Ann coming soon!

Ann has a B.A. in English with an emphasis on creative writing from the University of Washington. She is a member of Novelists, Inc. She is currently toiling away on her next book, wishing she was on a Mexican beach with an ice-cold Corona in one hand and a book in the other. When she is not dabbling in fiction, she is arm wrestling with her two kids, attempting to seduce her husband, and arguing with her sassy cats. You can find her on all major social media platforms.

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The Last Breath Before Death by Alan Golbourn 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. 

An artist and paranormal investigative reporter must seek answers to his missing brother when he disappears in Germany and in the process discovers an unparralleled evil in author Alan Golbourn’s “The Last Breath Before Death”. 

The Synopsis

BLOOD IS THICKER THAN WATER

A missing brother … An imminent phenomenon …

Award-winning comic book illustrator and artist Jimmy Cochran is also a freelance reporter in New York City, specialising in the supernatural. Upon hearing that his estranged brother, Quentin, has gone missing with his best friend over in Germany, Jimmy becomes concerned — unable to shake off the feeling of foreboding and dread. Things worsen when he quickly learns that the missing two are in great danger from an unequalled evil, which is connected to an upcoming, ominous and phenomenal event.

A mysterious ‘man’ with a terrifying tale …

With time running out, Jimmy investigates further, in spite of the strong warnings and the danger to his own life — particularly after he is contacted by a peculiar and mystifying man with a horrific, nefarious past of his own, linked to old Serbian and German folklores and a sinister, secret brotherhood.

The Review

Another compelling supernatural thriller from author Alan Golbourn. The author does a remarkable job of simultaneously creating atmospheric supernatural stories and a cult following. The imagery in the author’s writing brought the European setting and folkloric atmosphere to life on the page in a way that will stay with the reader.

The heart of this novel was in the balance the author found between relatable character development and deep, folkloric mythos. The unique spin on the classic “vampire” that the author found through Germanic folklore was so inspired and added a depth of terror that few vampire books manage to capture these days. The protagonist’s complex familial bonds with his brother and mother and the relatable life experiences he exudes throughout this narrative will instantly draw readers in.

The Verdict

Haunting, detailed, and entertaining, author Alan Golbourn’s “The Last Breath Before Death” is a must-read supernatural horror thriller. The unique twists and turns that this narrative takes, the relatability of the protagonist, and the chilling nature of this take on vampires will stay with readers long after the final chapter ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

About the Author

Alan Golbourn was born in Essex, England. He has enjoyed writing stories since a young age, when he was recognised early for his writing abilities. Amongst several interests and hobbies, including football and computer games, he holds a love and compassion for animals.

Interview with the Devil: Resurrection by Michael Harbron 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.

TRIGGER WARNING: This book features storylines involving SA. Anyone who could be triggered by this storyline should avoid this chapter, which the author outlines at the beginning of the book for readers’ knowledge. Reader discretion is advised.

Joseph Banbury must confront his own inner demons while facing a dark destiny, newfound powers and the Devil himself in author Michael Harbron’s “Interview with the Devil: Resurrection”, the next book in the Interview with the Devil series.

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The Synopsis

In the gripping second installment of the series, Joseph Banbury ventures further into the realms of the supernatural, wielding newfound powers that challenge his understanding of good and evil. As he navigates a treacherous path fraught with peril and deception, Joseph confronts his inner demons while forging an unlikely alliance with the Devil himself. With each step closer to the truth, Joseph unravels dark secrets that bind him to his fate, culminating in a chilling revelation that shakes the foundations of his existence. Will Joseph succumb to his destiny, or will he defy the forces of darkness and forge his own path to redemption?

The Review

What an incredible sequel to the first book in this series! The author did an incredible job of crafting a story that really built upon the mythos and narrative laid down in the first book. One of the first things that stood out to me was how the author explored a writer’s relationship to the craft of writing, from writing for themselves versus writing for others to the responsibility of telling the right story. 

Joseph’s evolution and the volatile and charged sessions interviewing the Devil really kicked this story up a notch. The imagery and powerful world-building that the author poured into this sequel only served to elevate Joseph’s journey, toeing the line between sci-fi and fantasy storytelling and exploring the power and influence of the human psyche as well. The themes of order versus chaos, control versus freedom, and the true nature of “good and evil” made for compelling narratives, and the author really embraced the horror nature of this novel, crafting some chilling scenes that will stay with readers long after the book ends. 

The Verdict

Shocking, entertaining, and harrowing, author Michael Harbron’s “Interview with the Devil: Resurrection” is a must-read supernatural horror fantasy thriller. The twists in the narrative as the author explores both the Devil and Joseph much more closely in this sequel and the cliffhanger ending will stay with readers, who will be eager for the third book in this trilogy. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Michael Harbron is an American fiction writer who brings a unique, yet traditional approach to the horror and supernatural genres. From a young age, Harbron was captivated by the eerie and unexplained, a fascination that has deeply influenced his writing. His works aim to unsettle readers through suspense and psychological depth, revisiting the shadowy corners of childhood fears. His debut novel, “Interview with the Devil,” exemplifies the blurred lines between reality and the unimaginable. Harbron’s storytelling resurrects dormant fears, proving that true horror lies not in what is seen, but in what is felt.

https://michaelharbron.com

Blue Eyed Devil by M.J. McDuffie 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. 

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An FBI agent with a unique gift must team up with a recently widowed woman with unique gifts of her own as she is thrust into the middle of a powerful supernatural and political conspiracy that will take them to parts unknown in author M.. McDuffie’s “Blue Eyed Devil”.

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The Synopsis

In this riveting paranormal political thriller, prepare to embark on a dangerous pulse-pounding adventure where the past and present collide, whilst around every corner – evil lurks in the shadows. 

When fate intertwines the path of Remy Montgomery – an FBI agent with the unique ability to see auras with the captivating widow, Belle Brooks – who finds herself entangled in the dark legacy of her billionaire criminal husband – their unusual lives turn upside down. 

But Belle has some secret magical gifts of her own – ones that seem to defy logic. 

As their connection deepens, they become mixed up in a supernatural web of mystery, secrets, and danger. Amidst this tangled history, a malevolent force sets its sight on Belle, forcing the two of them to navigate treacherous obstacles including an old IRA bombing, along with several rigged presidential elections which somehow factor into a mega conglomerates new miracle drug awaiting FDA approval. 

But how are they all connected? 

Armed with two keys, Belle and Remy must race against the clock to unravel the sinister plot and stop the malicious monster determined to possess the new widow…at all costs. Blue Eyed Devil is a supernatural spine-tingling political escapade that leads you across several continents and throughout history, while fate hangs in the balance. 

Can they stop the savages targeting them before it’s too late? Brace yourself for an electrifying ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the climatic final showdown. 

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The Review

This was such an incredibly powerful and gripping narrative. The author did a fantastic job of creating an equilibrium that made the story’s political and supernatural elements. The book immediately sets the stage in the opening chapter, creating a haunting atmosphere rich with imagery and tension that instills a sense of mystery in the reader immediately. 

The true power behind this novel, however, rests in the hodgepodge of genres that the author embodies and the compelling character dynamics that are created. The book not only highlights the political scene and the supernatural so well but adds elements of mystery, romance, historical fiction, and even Celtic mythology that speak to this remarkable narrative’s rich cultural aspect.

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The Verdict

Thrilling, haunting, and entertaining author M.J. McDuffie’s “Blue Eyed Devil” is a must-read novel. The heart-pounding atmosphere, the action-packed, globe-trotting mystery, and the suspense behind the conspiracy the two protagonists face will have readers hanging onto the author’s every word, ever for the next book in the series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

When tragedy struck more than a decade ago, she never dreamed the movie inside her head would help cope with the overwhelming grief life had dealt her. The therapy of writing blossomed into a thought provoking and action-packed mystery thriller. Also, adding to the unique captivating plot twists – a dash of paranormal. 

It’s impossible for the Nana of 3 to be far from the sea. Although M.J. is a native Washingtonian, she has lived in the sunshine state of Florida for almost twenty-five years and now considers it home. This novel happened because one beautiful woman believed in her enough to convince an old marketing and broadcasting executive to give book writing a try. 

The former DC swamp rat and die-hard University of Maryland fan is currently working on her second book in the series, Green Eyed Monster, which will debut in early 2024. An electrifying international tale of deceit and intrigue, which she will weave into another suspenseful and action-packed novel. 

https://mjmcduffie.com/

Scylla: The Revenge (The Cyprus Mysteries Book 2) by Myron Edwards 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 man must face a wrathful goddess for whom he rejected and find a way of stopping the chaos and destruction she is reigning down on the Mediterranean coast in author Myron Edwards’s “Scylla: The Revenge”, the second book in The Cyprus Mysteries.

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The Synopsis

She’s back and this time she brought a friend…

The story continues: the sequel to The Mistress of the Rock, is The Revenge.

Still smarting from Richard Cole’s rejection, Aphrodite plans a series of events that will bring about his return to the island. Only this time, his welcome will not be so warm, as he will have to battle bureaucracy and the islanders’ contempt for the devastating aftermath of his chance discovery and his sudden departure. In addition, he confronts his internal demons, and with his return to Cyprus, might completely consume him.

For Aphrodite is set upon a path of cold vengeance and summons the Scylla, a legendary cryptid of the deep, to do her bidding. The creature wreaks havoc on the once idyllic coast of Cape Greco and the tourist resorts of Ayia Napa, Protaras, and Paphos.

Richard must not only face his devils but also the goddess, if he is to stop the terror that now lurks in the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters.

But how is he going to do it?

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The Review

This was an exhilarating and thoughtful read. The author once more brought a great deal of depth to the mythos and balanced the Greek supernatural and mythological forces that the protagonist was facing with the memorable, heartfelt character moments that made the characters so beloved and engaging to the reader. 

The character development and world-building really pushed the narrative in new directions this time around. The author was able to hone in on the cruelty and vulnerability of Aphrodite and the determination and heroism of Richard Cole. The introduction of the Scylla and the higher stakes of the story and the life that Richard had carved out for himself were great to see come to life on the page, as was the relationship that Richard had with the people of Cyprus and the locals themselves. 

The Verdict

Action-packed, emotionally driven, and perfectly tense, author Myron Edwards’s “Scylla: The Revenge” is a fantastic fantasy meets supernatural thriller with a large dose of mythology. The second entry into the author’s Cyprus Mysteries series, the novel has some great twists and turns, and the shocking finale will be both a gut-punch and a nail bitter to readers as they await the third book in the series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born in 1952 in Orsett, Essex in England, the youngest son to Welsh parents Iris and Bill Edwards. Upon leaving school, he went into the travel industry, where he travelled the world, working in travel agencies, tour operators and airlines for some 30 years. In 1976 Myron began freelance writing for BBC, radio and television, his credits include the Two Ronnies, Week Endings, and the News Huddlines. In 1980, he joined JWT advertising, as a copywriter writing his first TV commercial for dog food inside 10 days. His love for the creative never left him and in 1987 he created Tubewalking, a new map concept, to help people get around London easier on foot, which still operates today. In 1990 he married Niki, whose family background is Greek Cypriot. On a family trip to Cyprus, visiting Aphrodite’s Rock for the first time, the beginnings of his passion to write the story of Mistress of the Rock came into fruition. Moving his family in 2005 to Cyprus to live, gave him the opportunity to write, as during this time he worked on campaigns for TV and Radio in an advertising agency in Limassol. The first manuscript of the book was completed in 2007, released by a local publisher it had a limited audience, but was well received by those who had read it. He has now completed the sequel and is working on the third part of this story. Myron has three children, two sons and one daughter all grown up.

https://www.myronedwardsbooks.com/

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”.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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/

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Godthread by Caleb T. Brabham 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 conspiracy of biblical proportions takes over as a powerful demon on a mission to reunite Eve with her son Cain in heaven must match wits with apocalyptic angels, the antichrist, and God himself in author Caleb T. Brabham’s “Godthread”.

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The Synopsis

A demonic investigator.

A Heavenly conspiracy.

Whatever he finds … he’s damned already.

Azrael Abaddon, better known to his demonic peers as “The Destroyer”, has been summoned to Heaven on a mission of mercy to reunite Eve with her son, the murderous Cain. Motivated by a rare desire to aid the infamous mother, Azrael pits himself into Satanic plots, angelic assassinations and matches wits with apocalyptic angels, an enterprising antichrist and Almighty God, Himself. But when the devil is found dead, Azrael realizes a far more sinister game is being played and the mysterious “Godthread” may be the most important piece of all.

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The Review

This was an engaging and captivating read. The sheer volume of mythos and world-building the author did was great to see come to life, with a vast array of different characters from various religious beliefs and mythologies melding together in a vast series of settings that feel almost as fantastical as the narrative itself. The imagery the author uses in the book really brought the chilling nature of the demonic protagonist and the fierce and terrifying presence of the angelic host to life in a unique way, and the interwoven story of Eve, Cain, and the start of humanity really came to life through these passages.

The heart of the story rested in the blend of world-building with the natural change in perspectives within the narrative. By which I mean the way the author explores both the moments of history within the context of the Bible through the lens of the protagonist as they witness these moments that resound so tightly to the Christian faith and the modern-day storyline within the kingdoms of “heaven and hell” made this a compelling and imaginative story to get lost in.

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The Verdict

Captivating, entertaining, and memorable, author Caleb T. Brabham’s “Godthread” is a must-read fantasy and supernatural noir thriller that will keep you glued to the book’s pages. The unique perspective of a protagonist with such a mischievous and complex history and modern-day perspective and the way morality and politics play into the hierarchy of these two worlds made this a rich world to behold. While only available to preorder on Barnes & Noble, be sure to preorder your copy today and be on the lookout for links to other sites soon, with the book releasing sometime this summer!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Caleb Brabham is an editor, journalist and photographer currently living in New Orleans. His first book, Apocalypse of Bob, was published in 2010 by Charisma Media.

https://calebtbrabham.com/index.php

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/godthread-caleb-brabham/1143277661?ean=2940185577301