Tag: suspense

The Ageless by Timothy Hernandez 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 series of disappearances in early 20th-century London leads an investigator into a dark mystery in author Timothy Hernandez’s “The Ageless.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

From the Personal Archives of Richard Matthews – London, 1905

What follows are the recovered journal entries of Richard Matthews—a private investigator by trade—and his involvement in the infamous case of London’s vanishing children. These documents, long thought lost, shed new light on one of the city’s most perplexing mysteries, and the man Commissioner Edward Richard Henry trusted to solve.

The official records confirm 12 disappearances—9 of which were children. With no signs of forced entry and no helpful clues, the lead inspector assumes foreign spies are the culprit, eager to get their hands on naval shipping secrets.

But these journal entries suggest a darker tale.

Whether these pages contain the ramblings of a man lost to his vices, or a truth too terrible for history to acknowledge, I leave to the reader’s judgment. The journal, along with its accompanying letters, offers a window into one of London’s most enigmatic cases—a mystery that has come to be known as “The Ageless.”

What follows is his story, presented in its entirety for the first time.

Reader, be warned: some doors, once opened, cannot be easily closed.

The 64K Society

The Review

This was such an engaging and captivating read. The author found an outstanding balance between late 19th-century and early 20th-century London investigations with Gothic, dark fantasy-driven horror. The narrative was delivered at a quick pace, yet still managed to create a haunting, dark atmosphere that captured the cold, cobblestone-laden streets of London in the 19th century. 

What stood out as the heart of this story was the natural development of mythology and fantastic character development. The protagonist, Richard Matthews, is a figure haunted by the past, and yet determined to stop a great injustice from being unleashed on London once more. The first-person narrative allowed the reader to experience the setbacks, frustration, and determination that Richard exuded on the pages, while also sensing the mystery behind the words Richard wasn’t saying throughout the investigation.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author Timothy Hernandez’s “The Ageless” is a must-read thriller that blends dark fantasy and horror. The Gaslamp fantasy element of the narrative, the haunting atmosphere of the setting, and the shocking twists and turns that upend a classic children’s story, as well as the origins of this mystery, make this a compelling novel to get lost in. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Drawing from his experience working for several fortune 500 companies, coupled with his passion for visual storytelling and digital cinematography, Timothy Hernandez brings a filmmaker’s eye to the complexities of corporate culture and personal transformation. After building a successful career in regional and training management, a recent disability shifted his perspective, inspiring him to craft a powerful narrative about adaptation and resilience—weaving together his deep understanding of storytelling techniques with raw, honest insights about how unexpected life changes reshape our journey.

https://linktr.ee/timothyhernandezauthor

Interview with Author Barry Harden

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

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

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

Advertisements

2) What inspired you to write your book?

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

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

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

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

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

Advertisements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Advertisements

About the Author

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

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

Website: www.barryhardenauthor.com

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

She Tames the Kings by E.M. Etheridge 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. 

Imprisoned and betrayed, a woman must reclaim her destiny amidst a power struggle between warring kings of both land and sea in author E.M. Etheridge’s “She Tames the Kings.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Chained in the deepest bowels of Captain Keres’ ship, Estella Bohem has lost everything-her freedom, her father’s safety, and the trust she placed in Dane. With her heart shattered by his betrayal, she has only one chance to reclaim her destiny.

To break the Pirate Lords’ Bonds and free the witches of Salvus Island, Estella must steal back her family’s grimoire and shatter its seal before the ruthless Pirate King Moritie and his cunning witch, Ines Laurent, bind her-and the sea beast she commands-to their will.

But survival on the high seas demands treacherous alliances. As war brews and the Land Kings set their sights on Moritie’s stronghold, Estella must outmaneuver the most cutthroat players in a deadly game of power, deception, and magic.

With time running out, one question remains: Can she tame the Kings-before they tame her?

The Review

What a compelling and twisted yet entertaining dark fantasy read. The author did an incredible job of expanding upon the mythology and world-building in the first book of this duology. The relationships that the author explored through engaging character development, from the bond between witches and their gods or goddesses, to the way witches were bound to pirates and kings, all played critical roles in the decisions and story developments that were brought to life on the page. Even the protagonist’s relationship to the beast she is forced to command is such a unique and powerful narrative to explore in this book, and speaks to much higher themes in the novel.

The character development’s themes and emotional depth make this a steady and thrilling sequel. The book uses magic, monsters, pirates, gods, and high octane action in a beautiful fusion with themes of power, control, the fight for freedom, vengeance, and self-reliance so expertly through the protagonist herself and the witch’s struggles. Set in a period already rife with untold horrors due to slavery and violence, the juxtaposition of Estella’s journey allowed her to find a way to tackle that even bigger problem later on in the book in a surprising way.

The Verdict

Entertaining, compelling, and mesmerizing, author E.M. Etheridge’s “She Tames the Kings” is a must-read dark fantasy novel. The twists and turns in this story, the rich storytelling and world-building, and the epic final chapter will give readers a sense of fulfillment and wonder while also leaving them eager to read more by this incredible author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

I’d always known I was going to publish books, and after years of writing my first book, I decided I wanted to publish traditionally. While still queering agents for that book, I came up with a whole new concept and decided to try my hand at publishing independently so I could gain experience in both industries. I’ve worked as a teacher, interned as an editor, and now I am ready to make books my livelihood through publishing and through freelance editing.

https://emetheridgewriter.wordpress.com

When Dani Smiled by Athina Paris 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. 

Author Athina Paris explores the complicated and haunting reality of modern dating in the novel When Dani Smiled, as one young woman explores a new relationship with one man while confronting a chilling stalker.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Stranded on the side of a highway, Dani, a young fashion designer and IT expert, calls to reschedule an important interview, only to discover that her future boss is in the hospital. Nicholas, playboy and heir to Galfrey’s, can’t help but be intrigued by the young woman’s voice on the phone and races to her rescue.

Attraction is immediate and mutual, but whereas Nicholas has never waited for anything in his life, Dani quickly dampens his enthusiasm by refusing to be rushed into a casual liaison.

Sams is handsome, ambitious, and rich, but also self-centred, with huge self-entitlement issues, manipulative, and believes Dani belongs to him. A master programmer, he is also no fool and realises that he is about to lose what he has never had; Dani, and so begins a dangerous stalking game. It is up to Dani not only to outsmart Sams, but also save Galfrey’s and herself, as Sams is the keeper of a secret, which he hopes will coerce her into submitting to his twisted desires.

The Review

This book was fast-paced and instantly engaging. The author easily introduces the core cast of characters, including protagonist Dani, in a natural way that allows the world around these characters to grow and thrive in its own right. The instant connection between Dani and Nicholas, as well as the complicated history in Dani’s life that becomes an ever present entity in their growing relationship, allowed the reader to connect with the protagonist immediately, connecting on both an emotional and psychological level that spoke to the experiences many people face in this modern world.

The heart of this story and the hook that allowed readers to invest in this character’s arc is the exploration of the theme of stalking and the inherent dangers that come with it. Sams’s haunting nature and attitude in the situation, from his sense of entitlement and mentality of what Dani owes him, showcase the scary nature of this particular crime. The exploration of the psychological impact this has on victims of stalking came to life so clearly on the page.

The Verdict

Emotional, engaging, and atmospheric, author Athina Paris’s “When Dani Smiled” is a must-read contemporary romance meets suspense novel. The twists and turns, the gripping character growth, and the powerful themes will stay with readers long after the final chapter. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Athina Paris spent her formative years in Mozambique, where she was born. Years in convents and boarding schools prompted a deep curiosity, which quickly developed into an avid interest in reading and storytelling that led to a lifelong obsession with the written word and books. By fifteen she had discovered ancient civilisations and became fascinated with various mythologies.

She became a spectator of human nature, but quiet and shy, she preferred recording conduct, and so built a treasure-trove of relationship observations from which she eventually drew backgrounds for the characters in her romantic novels.

She studied Interior Design then turned to Creative Writing, and followed that with Script-writing.

Set in faraway and exotic places, Athina’s epic romances take her characters on voyages of self-discovery while dealing with catastrophic love lives in an imperfect world.

A stint as a high school English teacher polished her skills but she now concentrates on her professional goals of writing, editing, and proofreading.

http://authorathinaparis.com/index.html

The Ashes of Coral Cove: Murder and Mayhem in Paradise 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 violent storm and a powerful fire reveal a shocking death that unravels a small town’s hidden secrets in author J.J. Macaw’s “The Ashes of Coral Cove: Murder and Mayhem in Paradise.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

A massive storm sweeps Coral Cove. Townhall consumed by flames. The city clerk’s tragic death sparks suspicion.

Maxine Harper, (Maxy) is a renowned investigative reporter who returned to her childhood hometown, steps into the web of confusion and chaos with Tony Blane, high school sweetheart turned therapist. Tom Mitchell, a retired cyber sleuthing expert and local bookstore owner, adds his unique skills to the investigative team. Recalled intimacy sparks between Maxy and Tony as they dig through the town’s past..

The arson investigation smolders under the fire chief’s incompetence, and the community’s trust burns out quickly. With remarkable skill and steely determination, the trio unravels a puzzle of cyber clues, red herrings and long buried motives.

A forgotten victim turned villain lurks amid the ashes. With vengeance in his veins and decades of rejection in his heart, he continues his arsonist rampage, targeting Coral Cove’s historic buildings.

As embers cool, the team races against time to uncover the truth before Coral Cove’s history turns to smoke. A shocking confession halts the town’s heart.

The Review

This was a short yet powerful story. The author did a great job immediately captivating readers with vibrant scenery and relatable characters they could invest in. The emotional drama and intimate relationships the story explores, while adding weight to the suspense and mystery this narrative provides, kept the short story feeling balanced and engaging.

This narrative powerfully felt the rich history of this small town and explored small-town life. It explored the all-too-familiar theme of forgotten people and what happens to those forced to live on the fringes of a society, whether that be by choice or circumstance. The emotional heartbreak of that situation and the steady pace at which this mystery unraveled throughout the story made this a standout read.

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thrilling, author J.J. Macaw’s “The Ashes of Coral Cove” is a must-read small-town cozy mystery and suspense thriller. The mystery’s twists and turns, and the attention to detail the author paid to developing these rich characters, will make readers eager for more stories from the author. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

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 Washashore by Marshall Highet & Bird Jones 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. 

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.

Advertisements

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

Advertisements

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

The Murder at Whispering Pines by Lai Holmes 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 series of mysterious deaths brings a young journalist and the local sheriff of a small town together in author Lai Holmes’s “The Murder at Whispering Pines.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

The charming town of Whispering Pines holds more than nostalgia for Joanna Gaines. Inheriting her aunt’s bookshop brings her face-to-face with the past, while leaving behind her hard-earned present. After a sudden death occurs in the town shortly after she arrives, Joanna can’t resist putting her journalism skills to work. Alongside her childhood crush, she is determined to find the truth, even if it means biting off more then she can chew. Together, they uncover the town’s carefully kept secrets. As time ticks down, Joanna must confront the mysteries of the town—and her future. Will her courage and inquisitive mind be enough to uncover the truth and protect their town?

The Review

A truly compelling and engaging novella, the author perfectly captures the cozy mystery and suspense thriller genres with a hint of magical realism. The atmosphere the author manages to create and the tension as the mystery unfolds allow the reader to feel transported into this small town, and the inclusion of a romantic twist into the narrative gives the stakes of this mystery more gravitas. 

The story’s fast pace and rich character development made it a memorable read. The closeness that formed between the protagonist and the supporting cast, especially the local sheriff, was palpable and thoughtfully written. This allowed the characters a well-rounded and relatable journey as they tackle loss, family, and finding purpose in life. 

The Verdict

Memorable, entertaining, and thoughtfully crafted, author Lai Holmes’s “The Murder at Whispering Pines” is a must-read cozy mystery meets suspense thriller. The twists and turns and the hint at a deeper mythology of this town’s history will make readers eager for more stories about the small town of Whispering Pines. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today.

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

Shafted (Nemesis Series Book 1) by John Mahaffey 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 rising superstar in the world of golf must reclaim his self-worth amid a criminal investigation that threatens to tear his family apart in Luthor John Mahaffey’s “Shafted,” the first book in the Nemesis series.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Trey McCall, an up-and-coming superstar on the golf circuit, staggered past a mirror and gasped at his reflection; horrified, he froze and stared at his pathetic image—sweating profusely through a torn and faded Bob Seger tee shirt, eyes blood red and glazed, hands shaking, mouth dry and scratchy as sandpaper. The disciplined essence of an athlete, a thing of the past—each intoxicated day mirrors the last and the next—lured from his principled sheltered life on The Circle M Ranch by unscrupulous forces in the real world.

Suddenly fully aware—he must escape this highway to nowhere—to regain purpose in and for his life. The obstacles were infinite—four truths, his only vehicle:

He would need significant help to get there.

He must own his past to have a future.

Karma is real.

Trust is earned.

Lucky Richards, his nefarious business manager—a catalyst for disaster—vanishes, leaving in his wake an international trail of egregious felonies implicating McCall and his family. Survival becomes Trey’s primary concern, as golf takes a backseat.

Find out who steps in to help set Trey straight. Can McCall reclaim his self-worth on his journey back from rock bottom and come out on top in the unfamiliar territory of organized crime investigation?

The Review

As far as mystery and suspense novels go, this book took the cake. I was thoroughly surprised and engaged in the direction this story took. The character development of this book, especially the protagonist, showcased his arc from up-and-coming popular pro golfer to disgraced athlete to head of a heroic company, which was unique and creatively done. It showcased a more extraordinary world-building and mythos developed by the author for this series, which will instantly draw readers in.

The powerful themes running through this book, from the toxicity that can come from pursuing money and fame to the need for resilience in the face of failure and hardship, kept me as a reader invested in these characters. The balance the author found in really honing in on the struggles and temptations that those in professional athletics find themselves with, the mystery and suspense surrounding organized crime, and the formation of a force for good made this such a compelling novel.

BOGO 30% off S&W with code SW30

The Verdict

Remarkable, highly creative, and thoroughly entertaining, author John Mahaffey’s “Shafted” is the grand opening narrative in the Nemesis series and a must-read mystery. The twists and turns in the story and the affluent journey readers are treated to as the protagonist evolves and grows throughout the novel make the book feel accessible and engaging. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Version 1.0.0

John Mahaffey is a professional golfer on the PGA Tour. Between 1973 and 1999, he won ten events on the PGA Tour. His last PGA win was on the Champions Tour, at the 1999 Southwestern Bell Dominion.

Two of John’s most exciting years on the PGA tour were 1978 and 1979. In 1978 he won back-to-back tour events: the PGA Championship followed by the American Optical Championship. He also won the World Cup individual that year, plus the team event paired with Andy North at Princeville on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. John played on the victorious 1979 Ryder Cup team and the World Cup team that same year in Athens, Greece, with Hale Irwin as his partner.

In 2003, John was successful in making the challenging transition from pro golfer to announcer/analyst on Golf Channel covering the Champions Tour.

Off the course John released his first book Hogan’s Boy: A Journey In Golf, plus he hosts a monthly radio show called A Glimpse of Greatness, on Sirius 208 XM 93 PGA Tour Radio.

John also delivers motivational keynote speeches filled with great stories about golf and life.

In his spare time John enjoys fishing and writing, and he always enjoys promoting the game of golf.

Home

Sanctity of Freedom: An Inspector William Fox Series by Peter Thomas Pontsa 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 kidnapped young woman and savagely assassinated diplomats lead an inspector and an FBI agent to hunt down a ruthless killer in author Peter Thomas Pontsa’s “Sanctity of Freedom: An Inspector William Fox Series.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

While Inspector William Fox and girlfriend Tracy Jordan cruised on his cigarette boat The Midnight Fox, a crackle of the police scanner informed him a body had washed up on a beach. Much to Tracy’s disapproval, William chose to investigate. The Montreal police investigator already on the scene discovered a note on the body intended for William’s friend and taekwondo master, Mr. Kim. He is certain the note was from his long-lost sister, Mi-Cha. Kidnapped, while still a child, and trapped in North Korea, Kim is convinced she is still alive and implores William to help get her home.

Sanctity of Freedom plunges RCMP Inspector Fox and FBI Special Agent Patrick Reilly into an investigation of a savage assassination of a Canadian diplomat and two Australian intelligence agents. Meanwhile, Kim and his old friends chase down leads to find his sister that point to Pyongyang, the North Korean leadership, and the shadowy operatives of Bureau 39 who skirt the NATO sanctions.

All of them get drawn into a murderous game of cat and mouse leading Mr. Kim to face the man who took his sister and William Fox to match wits with the cunning killer.

The Review

This was such a compelling and engaging read. The author found the perfect balance between character development and fast-paced action, allowing the reader to fully immerse themselves in the world the author crafted. The exploration of different government agencies and law enforcement, and the high-stakes global espionage, drove the narrative forward and added more depth to the murder mystery element that began this story.

The world-building and mystery the story brings together throughout this novel bring the theme of freedom and what one is willing to do to gain that freedom, such as a spotlight. The adrenaline-fueled action and the emotional twist that Mr. Kim and his fight to save his sister gave more purpose to William Fox’s mission, and the amount of detail that went into bringing the setting of North Korea to life with its dangerous regime and geopolitical setting made this a remarkable read. 

The Verdict

The breathtaking imagery, atmosphere, and entertaining narrative made this a must-read international thriller. The suspense and drama fuel the thrilling action, and the remarkable character development adds more emotion and heart to these pages, keeping readers engaged until the very last page. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Peter Thomas Pontsa is a member of the Crime Writers of Canada and the Wordsmiths based out of Alliston, Ontario. An avid British sports car enthusiast, he has raced with Jagged Edge Motorsports, former president of the Headwaters British Car Club and a student of taekwondo with a second-degree blackbelt. A retired business man, he lives in Loretto, Ontario, Canada, with his author wife Angela van Breemen, and their orange tabby, Mr. Tee.

Welcome