1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?
I am currently a sophomore in high school, and The Pinewood Prowler is my debut novel. I have always loved reading and stories, but I only discovered my true passion for writing a few years ago. Since then, writing has been an outlet for me and I have been extremely invested in it, even attending Dartmouth’s Summer Scholars creative Writing course this past summer. I began writing the Pinewood Prowler when I was around 13 without any intention of publishing it. About a year later, I decided to pick it back up and got it published at the age of 15.
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2) What inspired you to write your book?
Last year, I had a rough draft of my current book that had been untouched for almost a year. As a young teen, I wanted to develop the story and share a piece reflecting the intentions and feelings of teenagers.
3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?
The message I hope readers take from my book is to be careful what you wish for. Curiosity can be both powerful and dangerous, and sometimes the truths we seek are better left undiscovered. And beneath the surface of familiarity, there lies deception. This message encourages readers to be curious, but also warns against the dangers that can arise from such curiosity.
4) What drew you into this particular genre?
I was drawn to this particular genre due to my love for the suspense and adrenaline evoked in the horror genre and my desire to create a mystery for the readers, urging them to read on due to curiosity and suspense. I have always loved reading and writing in a thrilling and suspenseful tone, and wanted to share this with others.
5) If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?
I would sit with “The Pinewood Prowler” because I would like to see into the criminal mind and what truly compels a serial killer to kill. I believe this is my most complex character, as the Pinewood Prowler has the ability to blend into society while also murdering at night. I would ask, “What thoughts went through your head when you were killing your first victim, and have you ever felt remorse?”
6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?
Since this is my debut novel, I am just starting to create social media platforms for this book, but I will keep searching for ways to spread my book.
7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?
As this is my first attempt and I am only 15, the only advice I believe I am credible to give is to just go for it. If you have an idea and want to write it, there is no harm in sharing your work.
8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?
I am currently working on growing my writing and am exploring new ideas for my next book. I am certain that I want to continue developing as an author and am excited to see what is in store for me as a young writer.
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About the Author
Audrey Zeigon was born in 2010 in New York City. From an early age, she developed a strong passion for reading and horror. These interests inspired her to write her debut novel, The Pinewood Prowler. Audrey has enjoyed immersing herself in this story and looks forward to sharing it with her readers.
Marc McKnight Time Travel Adventures by Kim Megahee is both a high-octane thriller and a profound meditation on fate, morality, and the unrelenting pull of time.
The series follows Captain Marc McKnight — soldier, leader, and unwilling hero — as he and his team navigate missions designed to observe history without altering it. But when emotion intervenes, everything changes. Time Limits begins with a single deviation that creates a ripple effect spanning generations. In The Time Twisters, McKnight uncovers a plot to hijack democracy using temporal technology. Time Revolution carries that war into the future, where rebellion and corruption blur into one. And Time Plague closes the circle — pitting McKnight against a future-born virus and an enemy who knows him better than he knows himself. With each mission, McKnight learns that the hardest part of changing time isn’t fixing the past — it’s living with what’s been lost.
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Kim Megahee’s writing reflects a rare blend of intellect and empathy. A University of Georgia graduate, he spent much of his career in technology, where logic ruled. But beneath that structure lived a storyteller fascinated by human behavior — how we react when the rules we rely on suddenly shift. Encouraged by a former student, Kim began to write, channeling decades of observation into stories that blend realism, emotion, and wonder. He lives in Gainesville, Georgia, with his wife, Martha, and their fiercely intelligent poodle, Leo. Visit his website, or follow him on Instagram and Facebook.
My sister Laura invited me to her church one Sunday. To my surprise, the program that day was more secular than religious.
The speaker challenged us — “What are you doing with the time of your life? Are you spending your time doing things that improve your heart or mind or soul?”
This pushed me onto a path of thought I had never gone down before. How was I using the time of my life?
“WORKING” was my first response. I worked 60+ hours a week for a computer consulting firm. It was fun, fulfilling work, and I enjoyed it. But it occurred to me I had no social life and no outlet for pent-up energy.
Then I remembered my TIME LIMITS book. I’d worked on it for two years but completed only a few chapters — and I wasn’t satisfied with them.
“I should finish my book,” I said to Laura.
We talked about it as we drove home, and Laura suggested we stop at a local Starbucks for coffee. She didn’t have to ask me twice. If coffee is involved, I’m there!
We ordered in so we could chat and spend time together. We continued to talk about the book. In the conversation, I mentioned that I rarely have time to work on it.
Someone touched me on the shoulder. I turned, and next to me sat a man with glasses and a cane.
“Sorry,” he said. “I didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but I’m an author, and if you aren’t writing every day, then you’re kidding yourself.”
The stranger was Shane Etter, a successful horror-suspense writer.
That night, his words surfaced repeatedly in my mind. I knew they were true words, and I didn’t have the time to write.
Another piece of advice came to mind. “If you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.”
Okay, I thought … If I decided to find the time, how would I proceed?
I looked for time, and presto! — I found it. I could get up in the morning thirty minutes earlier. I could write on airplanes and at the airport. I could write in my hotel room, at the bar, or at a restaurant.
It worked! Eight weeks later, I had a final draft of TIME LIMITS, ready for editing.
The best writing advice I ever got — write at least a little every day.
Q&A
How did you research your book?
I read a bunch of time travel stories. The primary setting in the book (the NewT Communications Tower in Atlanta) is based on the former BellSouth Services building in the same block as the famous Fox Theater. I worked there for twenty years.
Who’s the hardest scene or character you wrote—and why?
Easy. It was the scene where McKnight encountered Merrie the first time in the past. I struggled because I knew McKnight’s thoughts would be all over the place with confusion, fear that he’d make a mistake, and coming face-to-face with a beautiful woman. I tried it several ways, then wrote the scene from Merrie’s point of view. It turned out to be easier, and added to her character.
Where do you get your ideas?
Mostly out of my head. I get an idea and write the movie I’d like to see. The TIME LIMITS characters have taken a life of their own, and I get ideas from their personalities.
What sets your book apart from others in its genre?
In my stories, time travel technology is in its infancy. With a reasonable amount of power, you can only visit the same date that is a multiple of 25 years from the present date, plus or minus a week. Outside of those parameters, the power requirement is too big to be practical. I wanted a sense of urgency for every travel event.
What helps you overcome writer’s block?
Writers — don’t hate me — but I’ve never had writer’s block. When I’m away from my desk, I may get a little edgy. But when I sit at my desk, I’ll just look for more trouble for the hero, and that gets the creative juices going.
What’s your favorite compliment you’ve received as a writer?
At the doctor’s office (of all places), Martha and I ran into her childhood friend, who said she had read all my books and loved them. My feet didn’t touch the ground for the rest of the day.
Do you write every day? What’s your schedule?
I write every day when I have a book project under way. During that time, I try to write for 2-3 hours in the morning and spend 2 hours in the afternoon on marketing.
Where do you write—home, coffee shop, train?
Before I retired, I wrote everywhere — Starbucks, hotel rooms or bars, airplanes, airports, etc. Since retirement, I mostly write at my desk at home, though I admit I have carried a laptop on vacation.
Any quirky writing rituals or must-have snacks?
I don’t outline the entire book, but I do document the events/words/ideas I want to cover in each chapter. So, I’m a pantser-plotter (LOL). Snacks? I want coffee. Real coffee, not half-caff or decaf.
Why did you choose this setting/topic?
For TIME LIMITS, I worked in the book’s office tower for twenty years. I knew the building well and got the idea about an executive being murdered in an office tower and using time travel to investigate the case 50 years later.
If your book became a movie, who would star in it?
Simple question. I drew from all the movies I have seen. For example, my daughter Megan demanded that McKnight be played by a 30-year-old Henry Cavill. When I envisioned Merrie, there was only one person who fit the character: Amy Adams in her twenties. I have an actor in mind for all characters, but I’ll save them for another time.
Which author(s) most inspired you?
Tom Clancy, H. G. Wells, Isaac Asimov, plus Frank Herbert and J.R.R. Tolkien (for their vivid world-building). When we first met, Martha and I discovered our favorite books were the same book: EXECUTIVE ORDERS by Tom Clancy.
What’s your go-to comfort food?
Atlas Pizza in Gainesville, GA. It’s been around a long time. If you ever find yourself in our town, check it out. It’s in the town square downtown. You can’t miss it.
What are you binge-watching right now?
Outlander. There are a few more on Martha’s list.
If you could time-travel, where would you go?
The University of Georgia campus, 1973. There’s a certain girl I’d advise myself to avoid at all costs. Also, I’d tell myself not to get involved with another girl who thought she was available but wasn’t. But all things considered, I am who I am because I went through those trying times and eventually found my soulmate. Okay, so never mind!
Which 3 books would you bring to a desert island?
Very hard choice. First, my Bible, then EXECUTIVE ORDERS by Tom Clancy, and the Foxfire book that tells you how to survive on a desert island.
What made you laugh this week?
Some funny cat and dog videos on TikTok. They are addictive, and they crack me up.
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EXCERPT
An Excerpt from Chapter 2 of TIME LIMITS
by Kim Megahee
A few minutes later, they were on a path in a pine forest. A light breeze eased the heat of the Georgia sun and the pines whispered to them as they walked further into the woods.
McKnight glanced back in the direction they had come, then at the trail ahead. There was no one in sight. He pulled a form and a pen from his pocket and handed them to Tyler.
“First, the paperwork, Lieutenant. What I’m about to tell you is top secret and cannot be shared with unauthorized personnel, regardless of whether you accept the assignment. Is that understood?”
“Yes, sir.”
“Good. Sign the paper.”
Tyler signed and handed it back.
“Very good. Lieutenant, they’ve asked me to assemble a team to plan and execute missions using a new technology. The size of the team is fewer than ten, including two civilian scientists. I’d like you to be my exec for operations. I need a mission planner with leadership ability, and you’re it. The rest of the team’s still under construction, except for one scientist. We’ll be reporting to General Drake with oversight from Senator Lodge.”
“Working for the Dragon would be good. Oversight from Lodge? That’s not so good. He’s my Senator, but I didn’t vote for him. He’s a damned crocodile. I don’t trust him.”
“Lodge is the General’s problem. We’re the grunts. Our job is to execute.”
“So, what’ll we be doing?”
“The team is being called the HERO Project.”
Tyler rolled his eyes.
“Yeah, I know. Stay with me, Lieutenant. HERO stands for Historical Event Research Organization. In a nutshell, we’re going to be researching and validating historical events. Here, let’s take a load off.”
They sat on a wood bench alongside the running trail. McKnight looked across the path at a dogwood in full bloom and a bank of azaleas in unrestrained spring glory. Bumblebees hummed in and around the flowers.
“If you’re trying to sell me on how exciting the project will be, you’re failing miserably. Sounds like we’d be spending the next few years in the library and on the net, writing papers. Doesn’t sound like fun to me. Is there something I’m missing here?”
A thin smile formed on McKnight’s face. “Well, Lieutenant, I daresay we’ll be doing paperwork. I didn’t mention libraries or the net.”
Tyler scrunched up his face. “Then how? No library, no net. Where’s that leave us? Interviewing elderly witnesses?”
McKnight shook his head, waiting for Tyler to make the leap. Tyler sat on the bench, his elbows on his knees, his hands clasped together and his head down. After a moment, he looked at McKnight.
“You can’t be suggesting what I’m thinking.”
He’s getting there. “And what is that, Lieutenant?”
“Nope. I’m not going to say it. I must be missing something.” He paused. “All right. How do we witness an event in the past? We don’t have the technology to…. Wait, you mentioned a new technology, didn’t you?”
“I did.” McKnight allowed himself a little smile. One last hint. “You took physics at the Point, right?”
“What? Of course.”
“Um-hmm.”
Tyler stared at him. His eyes narrowed and darted around. He resumed the position with his elbows on his knees and his eyes on the ground.
“Who’s the scientist?” he said without looking up.
“Robert Astalos. He does research at MIT–”
“I’m familiar with him. I read a white paper he and his family wrote last year about interstellar propulsion. Son and grandson, I believe, all with the same name. Let’s see… Einstein related speeds close to the speed of light with time slowing down. Nobody has proved that wrong. And gravity is not a force, but a distortion of time-space. Everitt validated that.” Tyler sat up straight and looked McKnight in the eye. “Astalos invented time travel?”
Bingo. “Well, I’ll let him share the specifics with you, but that’s the bottom line. Interested, Lieutenant?”
“Are you kidding? Who wouldn’t be? Anything else you want to tell me? Do we have aliens in Area 51?”
McKnight laughed. “Not that I know of. Want the rest of the details, Lieutenant?”
“Yes, sir. You bet I do.”
“I thought you might. Here’s the short form. We’ll operate out of the DC area. Only a few people know about this. The charter for the HERO Team is strictly research. We’re forbidden to do anything that might affect history. There’s a mandatory risk/benefit analysis and research period required before traveling to make sure we cover the bases. No options, no exceptions, unless the President issues an Executive Order to bypass the process.
“The other civilian on the team will be another planner, your civilian counterpart. He or she hasn’t been picked yet. The General’s reserved the right to pick that person. You and I get no say,” McKnight said, holding up his hand to cut off any objection. “We need a shitload of testing before we can do any work. We don’t know enough about the technology yet. Questions?”
“Ha! Only a few hundred. This is supposed to be secret? Nobody outside the organization knows about it?”
“Well, for as long as that lasts. Congress is involved, right?”
“Yeah. I’m surprised the word isn’t out already.”
McKnight shrugged. “The day is young. But yes, until we hear otherwise from the General, the project doesn’t exist and we’re working on special projects for Colonel Stewart.”
“Okay. Why do we need the civilian planner?” Tyler asked.
“The official word is to balance the team. I suspect it’s because Congress doesn’t trust the military. I assume it’ll be an egghead guy with serious credentials and no government ties. Drake wants someone with no agenda.”
“Got it. Do you have anyone else in mind for the team?”
“I do,” McKnight said. He pulled a folded piece of paper from his breast pocket and handed it to Tyler. “What do you think?”
“Lieutenant Mitch Wheeler. From North Georgia College, right? Good pick. Has a degree in physics if I remember correctly.”
“Yep. That one was easy. And his buddy Hatcher, too.”
“Yes, sir. Should be a good team.” Tyler handed the list back.
“Glad you approve.” McKnight checked the time on his phone. “I need to go catch a plane, Lieutenant. Transition your work ASAP and report to me in DC Monday week. Questions?”
“Yes, sir, but they can wait until next week.”
“Very good. I have two more instructions for you.” He stood and Tyler followed.
“What’s that, sir?”
McKnight smiled at his new executive officer. “Number one, don’t bring any preconceptions about time travel with you. Doctor Astalos says most of what the science fiction writers came up with was wrong.”
“And number two?”
“The other two Robert Astalos’s? The men that coauthored that paper?”
“Yes?”
“They aren’t his son and grandson. They’re all him. They call themselves Robert, Rob and Robby, but they’re all the same guy.”
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A schoolteacher hiding a dark secret finds her two worlds colliding in author Constantinos Koumontzis’s “She Looks Like Fun.”
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The Synopsis
Ann Bonny hides beneath the façade of an innocent schoolteacher in Chicago but spends her nights a call girl. She masquerades herself through an online escort service to carry out her violent desires. Her two worlds collide one night as her dark tendencies cross paths with her ‘normal’ life. Miss Bonny is about to spiral into madness while trying to keep her two lives from combusting.
The Review
This was a compelling, gripping psychological thriller. The suspense and drama of the narrative create a sense of tension from the get, allowing readers to feel as if they are hanging over the edge of a rooftop, their heart in their throat, with every twist and turn in Ann’s story. The vivid imagery in the author’s writing style and the haunting atmosphere the storyline brought to life were very cinematic, keeping the reader engaged with this cast of characters throughout the narrative.
The powerful, driven character arcs and the novel’s dynamic themes really brought the whole thing together. Ann is a complex character, often balancing her work and social life to maintain her cover, with her nightlife activities a constant struggle. In one breath, she can be completely dumbfounded by the idea of a “happy hour” hang while easily able to plan out a gruesome crime. The concept of hidden secrets and of not fully knowing a person or their motives, while also exploring morality and justice in a society that often overlooks those who need them most, made this thriller stand out.
The Verdict
A haunting and chilling blend of horror, thriller, and suspense that evokes a tone similar to Breaking Bad, Dexter, and Killing Eve, author Constantinos Koumontzis’s “She Looks Like Fun” is a must-read psychological thriller for the fall season. The twists and turns this story takes and the cliffhanger finale are perfectly set up thanks to strong characters and complex narratives and themes that challenge the reader’s perspective several times throughout the novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Constantinos Koumontzis graduated from DePaul University Chicago with a Creative Writing bachelor’s degree in liberal arts. He was awarded the Mary Zavada writing endowment and honed his craft while studying abroad in London at the University of Westminster. He produced the short film “Touch” in 2024 and currently lives and writes in Los Angeles. “She Looks Like Fun” is his first novel.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman must discover the secrets of a small town while looking for the truth behind her sister’s death in author Liisa Kovala’s “Like Water For Weary Souls.”
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The Synopsis
In Nolin Creek, the water runs deep and the secrets run deeper.
In the harsh landscape of a Depression-era Northern Ontario mining town, Finnish immigrant sisters Hanna and Essi Kivi scrape together a living as domestic workers, sharing a room in a disreputable boarding house owned by a protective madame.
When Hanna’s body is discovered in the icy waters of Nolin Creek, the police call it a tragic accident. But Essi knows better. Her sister would never have risked crossing unstable ice—not after they lost their youngest sister Martta to drowning years before.
Haunted by guilt and driven by loyalty, Essi begins to unravel the secrets Hanna kept hidden. As Essi digs deeper into her sister’s final days, she discovers that in a town built on desperation and dreams for a better future, everyone has something to hide.
A gripping tale of love, family, sisterhood, and the search for truth.
The Review
This was such a compelling and gripping historical fiction mystery thriller. The author brilliantly wove together the narrative with rich character development, culture, and deep-seated mysteries. The writing itself felt poetic in a way, with the imagery found in the writing style so detailed and the flow incredibly powerful. The tension that built from the beginning with the discovery of her sister’s death and the twisted path the protagonist found herself on investigating the death herself kept readers on the edge of their seats.
What stood out to me was the amount of history that played well into the narrative and the emotional core of the main story itself. The impact of the Depression Era and its effects on the people of that time made the lies and secrets uncovered by the protagonist even more poignant. The emotional struggle that the protagonist felt not only for her sister’s loss but the loss of her younger sister years earlier, and the way it impacted her relationship with her mother in the years that followed, made this book both harrowing and devastating was the story began. The protagonist’s strength of will and determination in the face of so much adversity, as well as the infusion of romance and intrigue into the main plot, made this a phenomenal read.
The Verdict
Harrowing, entertaining, and compelling, author Liisa Kovala’s “Like Water For Weary Souls” is a must-read historical fiction meets mystery thriller novel. The haunting atmosphere, blend of culture and history into the fabric of the setting, and twists and turns galore that will keep readers guessing until the book’s final revelations, helped elevate the deep emotional toll of the narrative. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Liisa Kovala is a Finnish-Canadian author and book coach. Like Water for Weary Souls is her second historical novel. Sisu’s Winter War was her debut (Latitude 46, 2022). Surviving Stutthof (Latitude 46, 2017), recounts her father’s experiences as a Finnish merchant marine imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp in Poland. It was short-listed for a Northern Lit Award in 2018 and was translated into Finnish. Liisa is a member of The Writers’ Union of Canada and the Canadian Authors Association. Liisa also writes the Hygge House Cozy Mystery series as A. L. Jensen (debuting in early 2026). Her work explores her Finnish heritage and celebrates the northern landscape she calls home.
The book is available worldwide in all formats by Whitechapel Trading Co
Ann Bonny hides beneath the façade of an innocent schoolteacher in Chicago but spends her nights a call girl. She masquerades herself through an online escort service to carry out her violent desires. Her two worlds collide one night as her dark tendencies cross paths with her ‘normal’ life. Miss Bonny is about to spiral into madness while trying to keep her two lives from combusting.
“Where has this author been. An enlightening commentary on our societal norms. I found myself routing (out loud) for the killer. Wonderfully written. Looking forward to the sequel or the TV series. A MUST READ!_ A Book WR
“This isn’t the type of book I would normally read, I’m a little squeamish, but a friend suggested it and wow, this book is fantastic! The outrageous story of a female serial killer is entertaining and well crafted. The characters are intriguing and the descriptions are so meticulously detailed they jump right off the page. Koumontzis does a masterful job of keeping the reader engrossed in this wild ride of a gruesome tale. I thoroughly enjoyed and totally recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun and thrilling read”_ Jennifer Lieberman, Award-winning author of Year of the What
About Constantinos:
Constantinos Koumontzis graduated from DePaul University Chicago with a Creative Writing bachelor’s degree in liberal arts.
He was awarded the Mary Zavada writing endowment and honed his craft while studying abroad in London at the University of Westminster.
He produced the short film “Touch” in 2024 and currently lives and writes in Los Angeles.
His debut novel, “She Looks Like Fun” is out now and available on Amazon, Kindle, Audible, and several major bookstores. More information about Constantinos can be found at: Constantinos Koumontzis | She Looks Like Fun
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman becomes caught in a battle between a rebellion and a brutal regime known as the Authority in author Gary Colton’s “How It Falls Apart.”
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The Synopsis
YOU ARE NOT PREPARED FOR WHAT IS COMING!
In a dystopian society, The Authority enforces control through constant surveillance, propaganda, and mandatory, party-approved affirmations. Liberty, a naive supermarket worker, dreams of escaping to the utopian Caldera Country. However, that dream turns into a nightmare when she unwittingly clicks on a mysterious message, triggering events that thrust her into the heart of a deadly rebellion.
Recruited by Rebels on the promise of a quicker path to Caldera Country, Liberty is exposed to the brutal reality of the city’s underbelly. She learns that her clean profile on The App makes her an ideal candidate for a mission to infiltrate Caldera Country and sabotage The Authority’s servers, an act that would cripple the regime.
Despite her spiralling fears and growing doubts, Liberty is constantly pressured into action, and is morally torn between whose message to believe. The Rebels will sacrifice everything for freedom. The Authority will stop at nothing to maintain control. As Liberty struggles to find her sense of self in the chaos of it all, one question remains…
AN UNFORGETTABLE CAUTIONARY TALE.
Fresh, Necessary, Urgent, Shattering!
After a successful launch on Kickstarter, readers are loving HOW IT FALLS APART.
The Review
This was such a gritty and compelling dystopian thriller. The anonymity of the cast of characters, referred to by titles and monikers rather than personal names, adds to the mystery and the dark tone of the story, delving into a healthy mix of dystopian drama and sci-fi level action. The author’s writing artfully portrays a stark contrast between the different parts of the city in which this story is set, and the intrigue of how the protagonist can be trusted will keep readers on the edge of their seats.
What makes this story truly stand out is the themes that it explores. From the dangers of unchecked and reckless development of AI without exploring the moral complications and harm to the environment, to the risks of a mindless society without individuality or the ability to question authority in any capacity, this novel not only feels socially and culturally relevant in this day and age, but serves as a call to action to prevent the events this novel takes readers through while also entertaining them at the same time.
The Verdict
Compelling, thoughtfully written, and harrowing yet entertaining, author Gary Colton’s “How It Falls Apart” is a must-read dystopian thriller. The twists and turns in this story, the intrigue and mystery that lace every chapter, the incredible world-building that unfolds, and the shocking revelation that the ending brings will have readers invested and eager for more of the author’s work. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Gary Colton’s path to writing has been anything but conventional. He dropped out of school when he was fifteen, mainly due to his struggles with dyslexia. But everything changed in 2010, while living in a hostel in Toronto, he stumbled across a tattered copy of The Great Gatsby. That book changed his life in so many ways, and ever since, he’s formed a deep-seated passion for reading, writing and storytelling.
Gary released his debut novel, Dark Finds, in 2024. He is the creator of the true crime Instagram page @dark.finds and hosts the Dark Finds Podcast where each week, he takes you deep into the world of those who’ve lived through, or created, something extraordinary. From fighters, musicians, and war veterans to cult survivors, ex-cons, psychologists, and entrepreneurs, he explores the lives of people who exist on the edge of the norm.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A former witch finds herself fighting for her life when deadly warlock magic is forced upon her in author JP McLean’s “The Never Witch.”
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The Synopsis
In her witch’s blood, a warlock’s power awakens . . . and it could destroy her.
Adeline Thorne was born to a witch. But when the magic that should have been her birthright never came, rage and humiliation drove her into a reckless rebellion. She lost everything: her coven, her pride, and her marriage.
Years later, she’s built a quiet life in the Pacific Northwest, distant from all things magic. She’s a portrait painter, a big sister, loving aunt, and ex-wife. And that was enough. It had to be.
Until a convicted warlock, desperate to escape his fate, forces his magic into her. But warlock magic is lethal to witches, a slow death. As the power manifests, Adeline knows she’s running out of time. With no other option, she turns to the last person she ever wanted to face again: the priestess who exiled her. A woman she despises.
But the priestess’s help comes at a price. Assigned to protect her is Luke Churchwell, a brooding runecaster with his own secrets—secrets that tie him to the warlock who cursed her. The deeper Adeline is pulled into the coven’s hunt for the rogue warlock, the more she realizes her greatest threat may not be the magic inside her… but the man assigned to guard her.
If you love the dark magic of Rachel Griffin, the sharp dialogue of V.E. Schwab, and the emotional landscapes of Alix E. Harrow, you’ll be spellbound by The Never Witch.
The Review
This was such a gripping and compelling urban fantasy meets occult suspense novel. The author did an incredible job of crafting a world set in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, and yet still felt otherworldly and cultivated in its own separate world. The author’s carefully curated use of imagery in the writing style of this book really brought each scene to life so eloquently, such as scenes in which the protagonist found herself being tested for this newly forced upon warlock power that quickly took an explosive turn.
Immediately, this book set itself apart with a nice balance of rich mythos and character development. The politics and tension that the author built both amongst the witches and warlocks and within their own individual ranks were thrilling to read, keeping readers on the edge of their seats on who they could trust. The bond between Adeline and Sarah as sisters is powerful, and the chemistry she develops with warlock Luke, as well as the return of an old flame, adds a bit of romance and will-they, won’t-they moments for the characters as the narrative develops without sacrificing the main plot.
The Verdict
Action-packed, thrilling, and entertaining, author JP McLean’s “The Never Witch” is a must-read occult suspense and urban fantasy read. The first in what is hopefully a great new series, the book brings a unique spin on the contentious history between witches and warlocks, as well as their own unique approaches to magic, and the dynamic character development and multiple POVs will keep readers heavily invested in this fantastic author’s latest fantasy series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
JP (Jo-Anne) McLean is a bestselling author of urban fantasy and supernatural thrillers. She is an Eric Hoffer Award winner and was a finalist in the Wishing Shelf Book Awards, the Chanticleer International Book Awards, and the Independent Author Network Awards. She is a B.R.A.G. medallion honouree and a three-time Literary Titan award winner. Reviewers call her books addictive, smart and fun.
JP holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, is a certified scuba diver, an exploratory chef, and an avid gardener.
Raised in Toronto, Ontario, JP now lives with her husband on Denman Island, which is nestled between the coast of British Columbia and Vancouver Island. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her cooking dishes that look nothing like the recipe photos or arguing with weeds in the garden.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
Two women must come together to investigate a mysterious murder and its connection to one of their businesses in author Cathy Pegau’s “A Murderous Business: A Harriman and Mancini Mystery.”
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The Synopsis
There can be a blurry line between what is ethical and what is legal.
Margot Baxter Harriman took the reins of B&H Foods after her father passed. It’s not easy being a business woman in 1912, but she is determined to continue what her grandparents started decades ago, no matter what it takes.
So when Margot finds Mrs. Gilroy, her father’s former assistant, dead in the office with a half-finished note confessing to nebulous misdeeds at B&H, she seeks out help from a very discreet, private investigator to figure out what’s going on. Her company, and her good name, are at stake if scandal breaks…and she could lose everything, including her freedom.
Loretta “Rett” Mancini has run her father’s investigation operation since he started becoming increasingly forgetful. When Margot offers her the chance to look into the potential scandal with B&H, she jumps at it.
But the more the two dig in, the more it becomes clear that Margot’s company may be too far lost…and someone is willing to kill them both to keep things quiet.
Charming and witty, Cathy Pegau’s A Murderous Business is perfect for fans of Lev Ac Rosen, Enola Holmes by Nancy Springer, and the Mr. Darcy and Miss Tilney mysteries by Claudia Gray.
The Review
This was a great blend of historical fiction and mystery crime thriller. The author did an incredible job of meshing the historical time period of the early twentieth century by highlighting the societal etiquette and actions that were ingrained into both class systems and gender roles. The tension that built from that first discovery of protagonist Margot stayed steady throughout the entire narrative. Yet, the author also found ways to create lighthearted moments, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
What made this such a strong narrative was the strength of this fantastic women-led cast of characters. The two protagonists, Margot and Rett, were both driven and formidable in their investigation, and their partnership as they drove forward with their investigation was terrific to read. The exploration of LGBTQ relationships in this time period was refreshing as well, and the story itself, highlighting food industry standards for grocery stores and canning industrial companies, and how government oversight and corporate greed played a role, was a great twist on the mystery genre.
The Verdict
Thrilling, compelling, and entertaining, author Cathy Pegau’s “A Murderous Business: A Harriman and Mancini Mystery” is a must-read historical fiction meets mystery crime thriller. The twists and turns in the story, the conspiracy aspect of the narrative, and the dynamic character development all blend with hints of romance and historical context that make this a one-of-a-kind story that hopefully will turn into a long-running mystery series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
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Cathy Pegau started her writing journey with sword and sorcery fantasy and science fiction romance, but also loves the challenge of trying new things. While researching local history for an Alaska-based post-apocalyptic pirate tale, she learned of some real life events that spurred the creation of a historical mystery. No speculative fiction, no aliens, no magic. It’s funny where research will lead. The post-apocalyptic pirate tale is still in the TBW (to be written) queue.
She writes what catches her fancy: Science fiction, fantasy, romances, historical, paranormal…Anything is possible, as long as there’s a good story and interesting characters.
Cathy lives in a small fishing town in Alaska with her family, pets, and the occasional black bear wandering through the yard. Contact her at CathyPegau.com, cathy @ cathypegau.com, or say hello on Twitter @ CathyPegau or Blue Sky @ cathypegau. bsky. social. (no spaces, of course)
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A woman must learn not only to survive but thrive in the aftermath of trauma and a haunting past in author Sienna Ross’s “Not Here Anymore.”
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The Synopsis
Not Here Anymore tells the compelling, emotional journey of Katherine, a woman who escapes a violent past, only to realize that unresolved trauma will continue to haunt her. After enduring toxic relationships, she embarks on a journey across several countries in search of healing from trauma and a new life. As she confronts her deepest fears, Katherine discovers that survival is not just about running; it’s about empowerment, rebuilding and self-discovery.
Through heartbreak, loss and life-altering challenges, including the tragic death of a loved one and the painful reality of a miscarriage, Katherine must navigate the scars of her past. Yet, even in the face of overwhelming grief, she learns that true emotional resilience isn’t just about surviving; it’s about finding the strength to thrive. This gripping story isn’t only about escaping abuse; it’s about the inspiration to heal and create a new future, no matter the darkness that comes from previous wounds.
Not Here Anymore is a deeply moving and authentic women’s fiction novel that captures the heartache of domestic abuse and the strength it takes to rebuild a life. Set against the backdrop of various cultures like Belgium, Italy, Cuba this domestic thriller offers an international perspective, bringing an emotional depth to the story. The journey Katherine undertakes is as much about survival as it is about discovering the power within herself to move beyond the pain.
Key Features:
A powerful, emotional journey of a woman escaping a toxic relationship.
Themes of survival, empowerment and resilience are the heart of the story.
Set in international locations, adding depth and a cinematic quality to the narrative.
Inspiration for women a must-read for anyone seeking strength after hardship.
An emotional rollercoaster, blending psychological thriller with personal growth.
This psychological thriller combines raw emotion with suspense, making it a page turner that’s both engaging and impactful. Readers will find inspiration in Katherine’s transformation and her relentless pursuit of a life defined by empowerment rather than fear. It’s a story that resonates with anyone who has faced life’s challenges, reminding us all that healing from trauma is possible and happiness is still within reach.
Perfect for fans of:
Survival thrillers
Contemporary women’s fiction
Psychological suspense
Domestic thrillers
Inspiring stories of resilience and renewal
The Review
This was a compelling domestic thriller meets suspense novel. The harrowing experiences and tension that the author layered into each chapter of this novel were chilling and heartbreaking, yet interspersed with glimpses of hope and resilience. The powerful imagery and honest, authentic dialogue between the characters keep the readers engaged as the story progresses.
The heart of this novel was in the character development, especially for the protagonist, Katherine. The realities and struggles of domestic violence and stalking that so many women have to face in this world are not only expertly woven into this story, but they also bring a haunting reality to the narrative. Yet, the themes of strength through survival and transformation were beautifully executed. Despite loss and struggle, the way this protagonist picked herself up time and again made this a memorable read.
The Verdict
Haunting, compelling, and engaging, author Sienna Ross’s “Not Here Anymore” is a must-read domestic thriller meets suspense narrative. The twists and turns that this story takes, the emotional weight of grief, loss, and empowerment, are explored. The shocking cliffhanger finale will leave readers eager for another installment featuring this endearing and moving protagonist. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!
Rating: 10/10
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About the Author
Welcome – I’m Sienna Ross, author of bold stories that follow people through love, loss, escape, and reinvention.
My writing blends raw truth with atmospheric storytelling — from violent pasts to distant cities, from painful goodbyes to unexpected strength.
I come from very humble beginnings, yet I started working at 17 and built my path through success in sales, team building, and leadership. As a licensed life coach, I have supported many people in overcoming obstacles and stepping into their true potential. My book carries the same mission: to remind readers that no matter the hardships, we all have the power to rise and create a life of strength and purpose
If you believe that stories can heal, challenge, and empower — you’re in the right place.
Through my work, I help individuals overcome challenges, build resilience, and find the courage to move forward even when life feels unbearable. With a rare combination of business insight and human empathy, I bring authenticity, depth, and inspiration to my writing.
My book reflects this mission—it is more than just a story; it is a powerful reminder that no matter how dark the past, it is always possible to rebuild, heal, and create a meaningful future.
