Tag: suspense

Shafted: Serenity Acres Book Two by Crystal Quast 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 couple seeks revenge as a sleazy real-estate investor rolls into the small community of Serenity Acres in author Crystal Quast’s “Shafted”, the second book in the Serenity Acres series. 

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The Synopsis

Fraud. A catfish. And murder on the menu. Welcome to the neighborhood.

Serenity Acres looks picture-perfect, but the secrets and the bodies are stacking up. A slick real estate investor rolls into town with a too-good-to-be-true deal that has the neighbors seeing dollar signs. But one couple isn’t buying in. They’re seeing red…for revenge. In this race to screw each other over, someone’s about to get shafted.

Shafted is book 2 in the Serenity Acres suburban mystery series. Each book can be read as a standalone, so you can dive in anywhere. No prior reading required.

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The Review

The author does an incredible job of building on the suspense and drama of the first book while creating a wholly unique story that can be read as a standalone narrative and still pays off plot points from the first novel. The tension and atmospheric nature of each chapter add depth to the secrets and lies that lie beneath the surface of this close-knit community, and the exploration of sex, power, and money as motivations for deadly plots feels both relevant and cinematic in its delivery.

The heart of the novel was what has made this entire series so palpable, which is the character development. While the book featured a significant number of subplots with supporting characters that kept readers invested in the events unfolding in this community, the central focus on Clara and her husband, Evan, made the story all the more compelling to read. The twisted lengths they were willing to go through, especially Clara, made the novel feel visceral and delightfully wicked to get lost in.

The Verdict

Twisted, enthralling, and memorable, author Crystal Quast’s “Shafted” is a must-read suburban crime thriller and a great continuation of this series. The cinematic quality of this narrative felt like a mashup of great shows like Desperate Housewives, Revenge, and Tell Me Lies, while the twists and turns in the story’s final chapters add a bit of suspense that no one will see coming. If you haven’t yet, preorder your copy today or grab a copy of the book on October 15th, 2025!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

With over twenty years of spinning stories in corporate communications, Dinked: Serenity Acres. Where Secrets Barely Stay Hidden is Crystal Quast’s debut novel. When she’s not writing, Crystal loves playing pickleball and tennis, paddleboarding, hiking, and spending time with her family.

Depths of Deception by J.J. Macaw 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 journalist uncovers a deadly conspiracy in her small town at a local book fair in author J.J. Macaw’s “Depths of Deception.”

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The Synopsis

The beautiful vibrant seaside village of Coral Cove is hosting its famous book fair and Tony Blane anticipates unveiling his manuscript exposing an increasing environmental crisis affecting the cove’s water and wildlife. Maxy Harper, a renowned journalist, returned to her childhood home to detox from the 24/7 stress of the crime beat in Washington. She was Tony’s fierce childhood friend and high school sweetheart and is covering the book fair for her podcast.

Excitement turns to horror when Tony’s manuscript vanished and things take a darker turn when Tony’s mentor is found dead at the fair. Maxy’s instincts kick in with a vengeance, and she dives into questioning witnesses, uncovering secrets past and present that point to the imminent risks to Coral Cove’s children and wildlife. Maxy and Tony embark on an investigation filled with danger, quirky locals, including a witchy “wise woman”, a Haitian grandmother known to be a voodoo priestess, and dangerous corrupt officials.

Threats build to stop the investigation. The arrogant police chief is aggressively pressured to downplay the concerns and wrap up the murder quickly. Maxy follows clues and leads a covert expedition to a neighboring island, exploring pirate caves and discovering toxins that explain the poisoning of the cove. A deadly confrontation ensues, forcing her to use every ounce of her wits to outsmart their pursuers. As things heat up and danger lurks, Maxy and Tony grow closer, rekindling their affections of long ago.

An aggressive grass roots campaign brings the community to a rapid boil creating intense pressure on officials that can’t be ignored. Reluctant state and federal authorities are forced into Coral Cove’s fight. The heir of the Allen family businesses joins Maxy and newfound official support to uncover the fraud and corruption at the root of the increasing jeopardy to Coral Cove.

The community simmers as the mysteries behind the poisoning and death are uncovered.

The Review

This was such a compelling and driven cozy mystery thriller. The author did an incredible job of building on the mystery and intrigue of the first novel in this series, capturing the setting of Coral Cove perfectly while delving deeper into the town’s past and the history that shaped it into what it is today. The rich character dynamics at play, both in terms of the protagonists and the townspeople themselves, all kept me invested in the overall story being told.

It was the way the author balanced the narrative that made this feel so fresh and engaging. The blend of environmental justice with the murder mystery and conspiracy angle the story took kept the steady pacing exciting, and the tension as the investigation was brought to new heights made this an exhilarating journey. Blend this with the fantastic trio of Maxy, Tom, and Tony, and their dedication to the truth, along with the promise of a possible rekindled romance, and this is the perfect small-town mystery to get lost in.

The Verdict

Harrowing, mystery-driven, and entertaining, author J.J. Macaw’s “Depths of Deception” is a must-read cozy mystery thriller. The twists and turns in the story, the depth of character arcs in this narrative (including the town itself), and the atmospheric nature of the story will keep readers invested in the story and these characters for hopefully more stories in the future. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

J.J.Macaw is a pen name, but the biographical information here is real. His  prose reflects  the experience of being a husband of 34 years, parent and grandparent.  It also reflects his four decades of entrepreneurship, having founded several companies in such diverse fields as water treatment, public policy consulting, fertilizer manufacturing and engineering. This experience lends authenticity to the settings, characters and descriptions of science, technology and business operations as they occur in his novels.

J.J. is an avid sailor spending years sailing San Francisco Bay and its environs.  He also holds Dan rank in Aikido.

There are no spicey sex scenes nor an abundance of cursing or overt graphic violence in his novels . That said, his characters do what real people do and the characters reflect the fullness of their lives.

J.J. lives with his wife and two cats (who own the house). Panama became their home  a few years ago and enjoys writing in that beautiful country.

https://www.jjmacaw.com/

The Maid by Nita Prose 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. 

A young woman working as a maid must unravel the web of lies she is caught in to discover the identity of a murderer in author Nita Prose’s “The Maid.”

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The Synopsis

In development as a major motion picture

Molly Gray is not like everyone else. She struggles with social skills and misreads the intentions of others. Her gran used to interpret the world for her, codifying it into simple rules that Molly could live by.

Since Gran died a few months ago, twenty-five-year-old Molly has been navigating life’s complexities all by herself. No matter—she throws herself with gusto into her work as a hotel maid. Her unique character, along with her obsessive love of cleaning and proper etiquette, make her an ideal fit for the job. She delights in donning her crisp uniform each morning, stocking her cart with miniature soaps and bottles, and returning guest rooms at the Regency Grand Hotel to a state of perfection.

But Molly’s orderly life is upended the day she enters the suite of the infamous and wealthy Charles Black, only to find it in a state of disarray and Mr. Black himself dead in his bed. Before she knows what’s happening, Molly’s unusual demeanor has the police targeting her as their lead suspect. She quickly finds herself caught in a web of deception, one she has no idea how to untangle. Fortunately for Molly, friends she never knew she had unite with her in a search for clues to what really happened to Mr. Black—but will they be able to find the real killer before it’s too late?

A Clue-like, locked-room mystery and a heartwarming journey of the spirit, The Maid explores what it means to be the same as everyone else and yet entirely different—and reveals that all mysteries can be solved through connection to the human heart.

The Review

This was such a richly developed and compelling thriller. Molly is such a unique protagonist and the instant draw of this narrative. Her candid view and open way of speaking freely about what’s on her mind, as well as the struggles she faces with conversing and understanding others in social situations, make her relatable. The harrowing experiences she encounters throughout this narrative add a special twist to the classic murder mystery narrative. The way this cast of characters comes together is fantastic, and the way Molly can find her community and group of friends to come together and face this growing conspiracy of murder makes this a thrilling narrative.

The fast-paced and tense atmosphere of this novel’s story was perfectly laid out for readers, allowing them to search high and low for their list of suspects as the mystery unfolded. The emotional backstory that unfolds as readers learn more about Molly, Giselle, and so many others not only keeps the narrative fascinating and moving but also speaks to the nature of human connection and how people connect and communicate with one another as a whole.

The Verdict

Enthralling, memorable, and thrilling, author Nita Prose’s “The Maid” is a must-read murder mystery and crime thriller. The twists and turns in the narrative will speak to fans of Only Murders in the Building and Richard Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club, adding humor and wit to the dialogue and directness of Molly and her friends, and the intrigue of the mystery behind Mr. Black’s death will have fans on the edge of their seats for much of this narrative. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Nita Prose is the author of the The Maid series, which has sold more than 2 million copies worldwide and was published in over forty countries. A #1 NEW YORK TIMES bestseller and a GOOD MORNING AMERICA Book Club Pick, THE MAID won the Ned Kelly Award for International Crime Fiction, the Fingerprint Award for Debut Novel of the Year, the Anthony Award for Best First Novel, and the Barry Award for Best First Mystery. THE MAID was also an Edgar Award finalist for Best Novel. Nita lives in Toronto, Canada, in a house that is moderately clean.

https://www.nitaprose.com/

Visage of Moros (Decay Abloom Book 1) by Tamel Wino 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 grieving father descends into obsession in his search for justice as the past and present collide in author Tamel Wino’s “Visage of Moros”, the first book in the Decay Abloom series.

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The Synopsis

A relentless first instalment of the Decay Abloom series that probes into the psychological toll of grief and the blurred lines between justice and vengeance.

In the wake of a vicious and calamitous loss, Drystan Caine finds himself on the verge, his life thrown into chaos. With the law enforcement investigation stagnating, he embarks on a self-imposed crusade. However, as Drystan becomes increasingly consumed by this undertaking, his personal and professional life starts to unravel.

Driven by deep resentment and reckless desperation, this rogue pursuit of justice rapidly takes a treacherous turn. As Drystan draws closer to uncovering the truth, he must confront how far he is willing to go before succumbing to darkness.

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The Review

This was such a compelling, haunting, and gripping read. The author does an incredible job of transporting the reader into this visceral and gritty world of grief and vengeance. The chilling imagery and raw emotions the author pours into this story help ground the narrative and emphasize the trauma that so many parents feel when facing such a horrific loss, especially when it comes to a murder investigation.

The balance of suspense, dark thriller, and raw character-driven narrative made this story incredible. Readers get to see both the past and present collide to showcase the horrors of losing a child and the dark path that those in grief will often go to find justice or make sense of what happened to those they love. The horrors, the heartbreak, and the duality of the protagonist being both a loving father and family man who turns to alcohol and obsession in the wake of such trauma all lean into the theme of grief and how it can change anyone, even if it blinds them in the end.

The Verdict

Suspenseful, gripping, and engaging, author Tamel Wino’s “Visage of Moros” is a must-read psychological thriller and dark mystery read. The twists and turns in the narrative, including Drystan’s descent throughout the book and the truth behind his daughter’s death, will stay with readers long after the book ends. They will keep readers invested emotionally and mentally in the protagonist’s heartbreaking struggle. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Tamel Wino is a Canadian award-winning, dark fiction author from resplendent British Columbia. His works focus largely on the erratic facets of human sanity and morality. He majored in Health Sciences and Psychology, which only furthered his interest in human nature.

With inspirations including Ray Bradbury, Jack Ketchum, Cormac McCarthy, Stephen King, Margaret Atwood and Edgar Allan Poe; Tamel’s expositions are strongly grounded in traditions of dark fiction. Yet, with his bold narrative voice and incisive plot construction, Wino is paving a new movement within the space.

When he is not reading or scribbling away on his laptop, Tamel often indulges in stargazing, rekindling classic shows and unearthing obscure music.

Dinked: Serenity Acres by Crystal Quast 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. 

Secrets are unraveled and rivalries are ignited as a battle between the pickleball and tennis communities leads to deadly consequences in author Crystal Quast’s “Dinked: Serenity Acres.” 

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The Synopsis

If you love cozy mysteries, welcome to Serenity Acres in the town of Southpoint, where everyone is a hot mess with a secret to hide.

Dinked: Secrets of Serenity Acres, dives deep into the deadly tensions between pickleball and tennis players in the bucolic, ball-buster neighborhood. When Margot Fields tries to push through a plan to expand the local courts, secrets start to come to the surface and residents start to unravel. It’s a death match to the end, but who will come out unscathed in this fun, feisty thriller?

The Review

This was such a compelling and engaging cozy mystery thriller. The balance of wit and charm that the story brought to life, both in the humor of the character interactions and the drama as tensions rise between them all, made this a thrilling read. The Imagery in the author’s writing allowed the reader to feel fully immersed in this small community, and the author did a great job of making sure the violence and more mature content happened off-page, leaning heavily into the cozy mystery atmosphere that the genre is known for.

What drove this narrative forward so well was the character development and the theme of change that the book embraced. The ways these characters either fought against change or tried to embrace it speak to the struggle so many communities have with adopting new approaches over time. The drama and the tension between this cast of characters, whether it was protagonist Margot and her rival Daphne, each of whom have their struggles behind closed doors, or the competitiveness of those who see pickleball as a progressive step in a new sport or those who see it as the death of tennis as a whole, these dynamic character events infuse both drama and humor into the narative, which helped elevate the overall mystery of these threats and the twisted nature of the town’s secrets. 

The Verdict

Visceral, humorous, and mysterious, author Crystal Quast’s “Dinked: Serenity Acres” is a must-read cozy mystery thriller. The twists and turns in the narrative, the shocking revelations about the town and its citizens, and the complex web of connections among the citizens of this town will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the book’s final shocking pages. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

With over twenty years of spinning stories in corporate communications, Dinked: Serenity Acres. Where Secrets Barely Stay Hidden is Crystal Quast’s debut novel. When she’s not writing, Crystal loves playing pickleball and tennis, paddleboarding, hiking, and spending time with her family.

Savior of Lost Souls (Retribution Series Book One) by James R. Bateman 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 powerful being must traverse time to block a great tragedy and save an innocent family in author James R. Bateman’s “Savior of Lost Souls”, the first book in the Retribution series. 

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The Synopsis

In a world where the threads of fate are woven with the hands of ancient gods, one divine being must step into the lives of a seemingly perfect family to prevent a tragedy that could shatter their world forever.

Since the dawn of humanity, the ancient god Lavek has been around, listening to the anguished cries of souls taken before their time. In the purgatory existence of Ul’Den, these restless spirits yearn for a second chance.

Every so often, a spirit’s plea is so loud it stands out above all else. Lavek is drawn to the time and place leading up to their death. His mission is to save them before that fateful moment and deliver retribution to those responsible. He is merciless to the guilty and a savior to the innocent.

In 1986, the Williams family seems to have it all – a good house, stable jobs, and a perfect daughter. They are the epitome of happiness. But their world is about to be shattered.

Lavek must piece together the clues, as he races against time to prevent a tragic loss. His journey tests his resolve and wisdom at every turn. Can he alter fate and save them from their darkest hour?

Experience a tale where the stakes are high, and the outcome hinges on the choices of one powerful being striving to bring justice to the world. Get your copy today and dare to unravel the mystery and see if fate can truly be rewritten in Savior of Lost Souls.

Savior of Lost Souls is the first installment of the dark fantasy thriller Retribution series.

The Review

This was one of the more compelling and gripping dark fantasy reads I’ve come across in a while. The story balances dark fantasy with a crime thriller reminiscent of stories like the film Prisoners and The Lovely Bones, as readers are plunged into a tale of a family torn apart by tragedy and the lone figure who sees the wrongs that need to be righted again. The detail and the imagery of the author’s writing style felt transportive as readers were plunged into the 80s and a story that felt almost cinematic on the page. 

The dynamic character development and essential themes the author delved into were equally matched with the world-building that brought the whole story together. The cosmic realms and ideas around destiny and fate were so creative in this story, and just as much as Lavek was a powerful and gripping hero to get behind, the family this story focuses on is relatable and heartbreaking in their delivery of the story. The two villains of this tale are haunting and instantly draw the reader’s ire when their story unravels. 

The Verdict

A suspenseful and entertaining dark fantasy and thriller, author James R. Bateman’s “Savior of Lost Souls” is a must-read book and a grand first entry into the Retribution series. The twists and turns the narrative takes, the metaphysical and philosophical themes and concepts the author plays with, and the balance of action with world-building and mythos make this a compelling novel that readers won’t be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born and raised in Staffordshire, England, James has spent over thirty years working in the IT and software industry. Along the way, his fascination with storytelling and narrative development led him to dive into fiction writing.

James is currently working on a series of novels, blending fantasy, urban fiction, and crime, with his debut book Savior of Lost. His stories explore life, death, and morality, as well as how the human spirit endures through complex and challenging times.

When he’s not writing, James enjoys spending time with his family, going to the gym, and indulging in his love for reading and video games. He lives with his wife, two grown-up kids, a dog, and three cats.

https://jamesrbateman.com/

Written Just For You by Lincoln James Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

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

A young man falls for a young woman hidden by local legends and seeks to tell her story in author Lincoln James’s “Written Just For You.”

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The Synopsis

Some love stories are written in the stars. This one is written in blood.

Will wasn’t supposed to stay in town. Jean wasn’t supposed to meet him. And the book she gave him? It wasn’t meant to be read.

Depoe Bay is a place of whispers—where the fog clings too close and stories go unanswered. The town says Jean is a ghost, a siren, a memory that never made it out of the water. But Will knows she’s real. He’s seen her. Heard her laugh. Felt something shift.

And now that he’s read her words…He can’t let her go.

As the town turns colder, the secrets grow louder—about the past, the dead, and what love refuses to bury.

Some girls don’t make it out of their stories.

But Will’s about to make sure this one does.

The Review

This was such a compelling and captivating read. The author perfectly brought a tale of suspense and intrigue to life on the page, carefully illuminating a time of significant change and uncertainty in the world (the 60s), and hitting readers with a healthy balance of thriller action and heartbreaking emotion. The visceral imagery in the author’s writing style effectively captures the tension and shocking moments that will stay with readers as they reach the climax of this tale.

Yet even with such a powerful story filled with shocking and heart-pounding thrills, the core of this narrative was in the gut-punch of emotional character growth. The heart of the story lies in the love story, which is wrapped in powerful themes of identity, grief, and finding hope. The way both Jean and Will are drawn together, and how love can be transformative, altering a person’s path in ways they couldn’t have expected, plays out perfectly here and elevates the psychological nature of this thriller.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and heartfelt, author Lincoln James’s “Written Just For You” is a must-read mystery thriller with a romantic spin. The angst and trauma that both Will and Jean represent, as well as how the author explores how expectations and quick judgments by so many can make a person feel trapped in a life not their own, were extensively represented here, and made the more shocking and twisted moments of the climax hit home a lot harder. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author



Lincoln James, your favorite author’s favorite author, is celebrated for his haunting love stories, vintage thrillers, and slow-burn suspense. His characters feel, ache, and bleed, often trapped between the past and the people who won’t let them forget it.

In 2025, James was featured in The New York Review and named Best New Thriller Author in New York by Best of Best Review, honors recognizing his compelling storytelling and emotional depth.

When he’s not writing, James is a Communication professor in New York City and cherishes moments with friends and family, proving that the most thrilling tales lie in the love and laughter shared with those closest to us.

https://thelincolnjames.com/

Diamond on the Rocks (A.J. Cadell Mystery Book 2) by Diane Bator 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. 

The caterer to a Christmas Ball is found dead, and a writer and budding bed and breakfast owner must solve the case before a major ice storm hits in author Diane Bator’s “Diamond on the Rocks”, the second book in the A.J. Cadell Mysteries series. 

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The Synopsis

When A. J. (Alison Jane) Cadell took over Thistlewood Manor, she fully intended to turn it into the bed and breakfast Grandma Bebe dreamed of before her death – except for a few minor hurdles. Not only does Alison have a new romance novel to finish, a Writer-in-Residence gig to get through, visitors coming from Toronto, and a party to help organize, the caterer has gone missing. More specifically, Blair Diamond who is catering the McKittrick Christmas Ball in less than two weeks.

Then Alison and her boyfriend, Mac, find Blair’s body on the beach behind Thistlewood and she is dragged into the rat’s nest that made up Blair’s life. Can she track down the killer before the Ice Storm of the Century hits Cedar Grove or will Alison become another target?

The Review

This was a masterful and gripping mystery thriller. The author did an incredible job of balancing the suspenseful atmosphere with rich character development. The small island setting and tension added to the atmospheric nature of the story, and kept the reader invested as the novel developed.

The heart of this narrative was in the compelling mystery and the dynamic character arcs. The author was able to craft characters that felt relatable, lending a cinematic quality to the overall story. The story itself had a good balance of subplots, from the hardships Alison’s sister Roxie endured upon her arrival on the island to the stress of planning a major party, and then the draw of the murder mystery surrounding the death of the caterer. The infusion of her late grandmother’s found manuscript and its relation to the mystery of Alison’s past was an even bigger draw, drawing the reader further and further into the world the author created.

The Verdict

Thrilling, entertaining, and compelling, author Diane Bator’s upcoming mystery thriller novel “Diamond on the Rocks” is a must-read and a grand entry in the A.J. Cadel Mysteries series. The twists and turns in the narrative as Alison uncovers the truth, the hints of romance between herself and Mac, and the mystery of Alison’s past all keep the reader interested and eager for the next entry in this fantastic new series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

An award-winning author, Diane Bator began writing as a kid when she fell in love with storytelling. After ten years with various traditional publishers, she’s created her own company, Escape With a Writer Publishing to relaunch her previous work plus many new titles. She is also a member of Sisters in Crime, Crime Writers of Canada, The Writers Union of Canada, and International Thriller Writers.

Diane is a proud mom of three, a Reiki Master, a blue belt in goju-ryu karate, and an artist who loves stopping at odd places on road trips. She is represented by Creative Edge Publicity.

https://www.dianebator.ca/

The Onyros Chronicles Book 1: Splinter by D.K. Thorne 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 mind extractor in a dystopian virtual world discovers a hidden secret that could hold the key to saving humanity in author D.K. Thorne’s “The Onyros Chronicles Book 1: Splinter.”

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The Synopsis

What if reality is a relic?


What if neural decay silenced your language—and killed thought itself?

Splinter launches you into Onyros, a virtual reality dystopia where thought is currency—and extinction is everywhere.

  • Neural mercenaries dive into synthetic paradises to harvest memories before flesh decays (a true mind-uploading sci-fi thriller)
  • Logan Bochniak is a dying breed—one of the last Splinters racing toward cognitive failure in a post-human cyberpunk world.
  • An impossible signal echoes through the system: an anomaly in the system itself.

Memory is a maze. Reality is a rumor. Your only hope is a fraying mind.

For fans of Red Rising, Cyberpunk 2077, William Gibson, Peter Watts, Black Mirror and YA dystopian books —and anyone who’s ever wondered what lies beyond the end of meaning.

The Review

This was both entertaining and thought-provoking to dive into. The dark, gritty tones of this sci-fi dystopian world were immediately felt, and readers were thrust into a world of intrigue and mystery that felt chaotic and oppressive, as the mystery deepened further. The angst and the forboding nature of the larger threat to humanity are felt in every chapter, and the rich imagery in the author’s writing style captures the darker underbelly of this cyberpunk narrative. 

The heart of this story lies in the grand themes the author explores and the compelling character dynamics at play. Logan, as a protagonist, is a powerhouse, revealing depth and complexity as he navigates the tension between his cold indifference, shaped by life experiences, and the harsh reality of the impact this virtual world has on humanity, as well as the secret he uncovers. The author’s commentary on technology and science as a whole, especially virtual reality and AI, is astounding, focusing not just on world-building but on the neurological and physical impact that being immersed in a virtual setting for long periods can have on the human body.

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, enthralling, and memorable, author D.K. Thorne’s “The Onyros Chronicles book 1: Splinter” is a must-read cyberpunk dystopian thriller. The connection the author makes between consciousness and its interweaving with our biology, as well as the plethora of unique characters and the epic world-building of Onyros as a whole, make this a sci-fi epic that readers won’t be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

D. K. Thorne studied philosophy and sociology, holding a B.Sc. in Psychology. With philosophical science fiction as his first love, Thorne crafts stories that explore the complex intersection between consciousness and reality.

The Onyros Chronicles is Thorne’s labor of love—a high-paced dystopian saga spanning multiple volumes that ventures into uncharted sci-fi territory.

When not writing, Thorne can be found working in abandoned Polish cabins and quiet attics. An award-nominated writer, he enjoys collaborating with artists from all over the world.

https://www.instagram.com/d.k.thorne/