Category Archives: Mystery

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Blue Moon (The Blue Crystal Trilogy #1) by Pat Spence (blurb, review & GIVEAWAY)

Blue Moon (The Blue Crystal Trilogy #1)

Not only do we have the pleasure in reviewing the latest book published by Hashtag Books, the brilliant supernatural horror Blue Moon (The Crystal Trilogy #1) by Pat Spence BUT we are also giving away 2 ebooks! For a chance to win one all you have to do is add your name in the comments list below (or on our Facebook page)! The two lucky winners will be randomly selected on Sunday 13th April 2014. Good luck, guys 🙂

BLURB: “Forget vampires,” he laughed dismissively.

“Who wants to drink blood for eternity? What we have discovered is far more seductive and a great deal more dangerous…”

When 17-year old Emily Morgan meets beautiful but strange Theo de Lucis, there is an immediate attraction between them. But what is his secret? What ancient link ties him to Emily? And what is the significance of the Blue Moon Ball?

As Emily is drawn irrevocably into the glamorous and mysterious world of the de Lucis family, so she is forced to change every perception she has ever had about life, love, aging and death. The truth is terrifying and the consequences unthinkable…

A supernatural horror story, based on society’s obsession with aging and the desire for eternal youth, Blue Moon is the first book in the ‘Blue Crystal’ trilogy…

“For all ‘Twilight’ fans who want a change from vampires, this is the book for you.”

REVIEW:

To say I LOVED Blue Moon is an understatement. I was spellbound from very early on in the story as the characters and mystery captivated me. The intensity is ongoing as the heartbeat keeps pounding through the supernatural mystery and horror. Blue Moon is likened to ‘Twilight’ without the vampires, and to begin with that is the feel of the story as the main character Emily Morgan first meets with Theo and Violet de Lucis. However, Blue Moon took me on a nostalgic journey as Enid Blyton was mentioned, albeit a more mature read. As Emily secretly tries to find out more about Theo and his family she puts herself in grave danger at times as she explores Hartswell Hall alone, with the risk of being caught.

 

The language and descriptions throughout Blue Moon are very powerful, allowing the reader to feel every sense of fear that Emily experiences. Pat Spence creates amazing atmosphere, some moments are eery and dark, whilst other scenes are touching and warm. The story was so profound that one scene in particular had me almost in tears!

 

Two examples of the language and the power it has over the reader are extracts from early on in the story when Emily first encounters Theo and her thoughts on meeting him:

 

Extract 1 (the encounter)

 

“Gazing into his eyes, I was lost in their intensity. It was like looking into the bluest sky and carrying on to infinity. I felt mesmerised, hypnotised and transfixed all at once.”

 

Extract 2 (Emily’s reaction)

 

“This was like nothing I had ever encountered before. It was all consuming, all-powerful and quite simply beyond my sphere of experience. Some deep inner instinct warned me it might almost be dangerous, but this simply added to his attraction and, if I’m honest, gave me the greatest thrill of all.”

 

The reader can relate to Emily on many levels. We all feel love, and her love for Theo is deeper than any other. She is drawn to him and has a connection that only they seem to sense, Theo even moreso. Emily is confused at times, not knowing whether to believe Theo’s story as some parts make sense but it is all too fairytale-like! Is he just a fantasist or is there meaning behind what he says?

 

Firstly, there is the sheer beauty of the whole of the de Lucis family. One finds it impossible to overt their gaze. And how soon do they rebuild Hartswell Hall and it’s grounds to an impeccable level? Surely that cannot be! The reader truly becomes more and more surrounded by strange happenings, incredible characters (including Dark Ones, shapeshifters and reptilia) and questions with few answers. You become absorbed into the story just as deeply as Emily is.

 

As the story begins to touch on the idea of eternal youth, or the alternative, that is when the secrecy and mystery begins as well as the horror. I found the horror scenes to be horrendous, hideous and more psychological than gory. They certainly encourage you to think about the ageing process and the lengths that some go to in order to retain their youthfulness.

 

Emily’s family and friends are the characters that keep her truly grounded and help her to feel ‘normal’. Living with her mother and grandfather provides Emily with the support she needs from a loving family who only wish the best for her. And being able to speak to her friends, Tash and Seth, allow Emily the outlet she needs by being there for her when she feels she needs to talk and seek reason. However, Theo just has this hold over her and Emily can’t let go.

 

I recommend Blue Moon for readers 15yrs+ due to the subject matter and horror. Readers will be as captivated and drawn to Blue Moon as I was. I cannot wait for the second instalment.

 

A copy of Pat Spence’s Blue Moon (The Blue Crystal Trilogy #1) was provided by Hashtag Books for the purpose of an honest and fair review.

 

You can find ebook and paperback versions on Amazon UK and Amazon US.

 

DON’T FORGET TO ENTER OUR GIVEAWAY FOR THE CHANCE TO WIN A COPY (2 copies up for grabs)! CLOSING DATE IS SUNDAY 13TH APRIL 2014 – just add your name in the comments below or on Facebook!

 

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

 

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The Lakeside Legacy (a South Carolina Romantic Suspence, Book 1) by Jean Jennett

Jean Jennett large

Mystery, action and a HOT romance! (Warning: recommended for 18yrs+)

Book blurb (please scroll down for the review): What Krista Lucas finds when she arrives in picturesque Camden, South Carolina, is beyond all expectations. Her biological father, a man she never knew, has left her a large house in town and beautiful lakeside wooded acreage. How he came to own the property is a mystery Krista needs to solve for her own peace of mind.

Jake Thornton maintains that his family owns the house and land, and he can prove it with a document his own father left.

… Or can he?

Jake isn’t the only one with an interest in the property. His three brothers are ready and eager to develop the land, and nothing is going to stop them.

Including Krista Lucas.

With Krista’s life in danger, whose side will Jake take? His family … or Krista? Will the truth be discovered in time?

Early readers have said that The Lakeside Legacy has it all: suspense, danger, mystery, romance … and love.

The Lakeside Legacy is the first book in the South Carolina Romantic Suspense series.

WARNING: This book contains graphic sexual descriptions.

Review:

I LOVED The Lakeside Legacy. It is more than a love story. It has everything: romance, mystery, action, suspense and sensual scenes. Not only is there a great romance blossoming between Krista and Jake, it is like a Romeo and Juliet scenario. These two strong characters are from opposing families where the house and land surrounding the lake are concerned. Both believe that they are the proprietor, and both believe they have the proof.

Initially, Krista is oblivious to another claim for the ownership of the land, believing it to be her inheritance. And so, after moving to South Carolina to her new home and being befriended by Jake she feels that she is moving forward with her life. Her feelings for Jake become apparent and the possibility of romance is close.

I love the way in which Jean Jennett builds up the love scenes. This really takes the intensity to an almost unbearable pleasure as it is so good. And at a moment when Krista feels comfortable to love again, after what happened to her in Manhattan, Jake’s family and the developers have other plans, making any chance of a romance impossible.

Jake’s family and developers are quite relentless and will do all they can to get Krista out of the picture. But what is Jake to do? Does he stand by his family, to claim the house that he was once raised in, the land that could be developed, or does he choose to protect Krista?

There are some dark, fearsome moments with threats and attacks towards Krista that really put the reader on edge. The suspense is quite intense and the reader has no clue as to what will happen next. The following excerpt is written in context of when Krista is alone on a dark evening. Most of the townspeople are being entertained at a festival and she decides to walk on into the town alone.

“She didn’t notice a pickup truck parked a block up the street, didn’t see it roll forward with its lights off, and didn’t see a man jump out of the passenger side at the end of her driveway.”

The Lakeside Legacy provides a great deal of mystery: who does the house/land really belong to? What will become of Krista? What happened all those years ago between their fathers? Who will the property be left to and how will this affect Krista and Jake’s feelings for each other?

This novel also holds a smaller mystery as to what happened in Manhattan with Krista. As the novel continues and unfolds the reader is given an insight every now and again into what happened. This makes the reader understand why Krista does not run from this threatening situation. In some way she is facing her own demons. After what happened in Manhattan, she is not going to let this one ride. She is defiant and will fight for her rightful inheritance until the bitter end.

One of my favourite aspects of this book is that, although the reader is provided with Krista’s point of view, we also have an insight into Jake’s. This allows the reader to connect strongly to both of them and understand both claims. The reader sympathises at times with Jake’s predicament, whilst still annoyed that he befriended Krista in the beginning.

I love reading about significant background characters, even if they only show a brief appearance. And Frank Arcola is a great character who I would have liked reading more about. It would be a shame to elaborate much more without spoiling the story but he is a very strong and meaningful part of the story. I also liked reading about Jake’s brother, Nick, who was someone to confide in, someone to talk to, and someone who could try to put the other brothers straight. I was hoping to read a little more of him towards the end.

I clearly enjoyed this book very much. Whereas most authors tend to concentrate on the one genre in particular, I found that there was always an element of meaningful action and love in The Lakeside Legacy. There is never a dull moment. And the sexy scenes in The Lakeside legacy are fantastic. It is a great suspense. I’ll look forward to reading the next book in the South Carolina series.

I would like to thank the author, Jean Jennett, for providing a copy of The Lakeside Legacy in return for an honest and fair review.

You can find The Lakeside Legacy on Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

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Tim O’Rourke’s Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter #1) release & signed paperback GIVEAWAY!!!

COMPETITION NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU ALL WHO ENTERED!

To celebrate the release of author Tim O’Rourke’s first publication, Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter #1), by major publishing house Piatkus/Little Brown on THURSDAY 16TH JANUARY 2014 we are hosting a GIVEAWAY for one lucky winner to receive a signed paperback copy of this brilliant story. (Please check out book blurb and our review below.)

To win a copy all you have to do is add your name below in the comments box, or visit us on Facebook and add your name there. Closing date is Thursday 23rd January 2014 and the winner will be randomly selected thereafter! Good luck, guys!

Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter #1)Book Blurb: Samantha Carter believes that a vampire is responsible for the brutal deaths of four women in Whitechapel, London, England. Each murder is identical to those committed a hundred years before by a very different serial killer.

Desperate to prove the killer’s identity, Samantha follows him onto a late night tube train. But Samantha doesn’t reach the next station and finds herself on a very different journey, where she discovers vampires are very real and far more dangerous than she had ever imagined. To stay alive, Samantha needs to figure out why things have gone so terribly wrong for her – and more importantly, why she is out of time?

‘Vampire Seeker’ is Book One in the Samantha Carter Series.

Below is my review (previously posted on 19th March 2013):-

I thought Tim O’Rourke had me with the Keira Hudson series. I thought the same again when I read ‘Moonlight’, from his Moon Trilogy, and then in his latest series, Sydney Hart, in the novel ‘Witch’. ‘Vampire Seeker’ is no exception to the rule. It’s wacky, adventurous, action-packed, fun and gory. From a vampire seeker in London, 2012, to a cowgirl in the Wild West in 1888, Samantha Carter is a brilliant heroine.

‘Vampire Seeker’ begins with Samantha following a Jack the Ripper copy-cat killer in London 2012. Samantha believes that the killer is a vampire and, as she has had an obsession in trying to prove their very existence, when she hears of the latest murder via a police scanner she exploits the situation by tracking him down. This is a very brave and courageous move, and even though risky, Sammy is on a mission for what she believes in. She is studying criminology but reading about, researching and studying vampires is her thing. She cannot let this moment pass. She is so close to the truth.

With the police on her tail, as she is seen near the crime scene, she follows the stranger she believes a vampire and murderer as quickly and quietly as she can. She ends up at a Tube station and boarding a train she sees the stranger take. With only moments before the police reach her she pushes her way through the carriages to find her ‘vampire’. Throughout the following pages words are exchanged and then there is a bright light….

….when she wakes, Sammy is in the Wild West in 1888. She is dressed in denim and can handle a gun or two very well. She is in a tricky situation as soon as she wakes, with a gang of men lying around her that she has supposedly killed and another man behaving in a threatening manner towards her who has disarmed her and ready to take advantage. It is at this point that Samantha meets the Preacher, Louise, Zoe and Harry, a group of possible outlaws that treat Samantha as if she were one of their own.

To elaborate any further would completely spoil the story, however Samantha needs to work out how she arrived in the Wild West in 1888, why she woke up there and how she can get back to London, 2012. Is it connected to the murders taking place, or the possible vampire she had followed? Or is it all a dream?

Sammy’s character is very strong. She is a decisive gal with ambition and courage. She handles herself well in most situations and stands up to the other characters in the novel. Although she isn’t easily pushed around or deceived easily she still retains her femininity and sexiness. Samantha is wise and is able to pick up skills very quickly, despite having to get used to a new way of life.

Throughout ‘Vampire Seeker’ there are many action scenes that are quick-paced, violent, gory and sickening. This all adds to the thrill and excitement and the pace of the novel. Tim’s writing is so clear to the reader that although you are using your own imagination, the details of these action sequences are still vivid and clear from the writing. Every movement made can be imagined easily, allowing the reader to live in the moment themselves.

With Tim’s books that I have read thus far I have felt alive when reading them, as if beside the characters, like I am there with them. With ‘Vampire Seeker’ I felt most of this, however I not only wanted to be there with Samantha but I wanted to be Samantha Carter. I wanted to know how it would feel to shoot pistols and ride a horse in denims, belonging to a group of possible outlaws. Would I want to stay in the Wild West, 1888, or return to London in 2012?

Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter #1)‘Vampire Seeker’ not only makes for such a great read, but it captivates the imagination so much that you can see it, you can feel it. I was taken on a roller-coaster ride of fantasy every few pages where one minute it is like the TV series ‘Life on Mars’, the next ‘Back to the Future Part III’. The only difference being that here we have a female lead character. I have been watching a few westerns on TV recently, such as ‘Deadwood’ and ‘Hell on Wheels’, and reading Vampire Seeker simply tied in with this theme with the added bonus of the faster, more adventurous pace, along with the paranormal direction. There are also so many twists and turns that one direction that the novel took made me think of the movie ‘From Dusk ’til Dawn’ but I will not elaborate too much here, other than to say that a relationship between certain characters have similar circumstances.

The Preacher character is almost like a father-figure type character in my mind. He is out on a mission himself with his fellow riders and he is a leader. Samantha is helped by the Preacher and although he, Zoe and Louise have been friendly and accepting of Samantha, taking her in as one of their own, Sammy has her doubts about the group as the story unfolds and questions the Faith of the Preacher.

And then there is Harry, Harry Turner. I can definitely see why this novel is for new/young adults, 17 yrs plus, as the sexual tension is very hot and intense. If you are looking for a romance theme, or at least the hope of one with a strong and silent type cowboy you will not be disappointed. He is like Clint Eastwood in ‘High Plains Drifter’, which funnily enough has an almost paranormal feel but not in quite the same way that ‘Vampire Seeker’ has. Aside from Samantha, Harry is my favourite character that I cannot live without. I am just dying to know just how bad he is. I can honestly say that if the action and gore don’t get the blood pumping, Harry certainly will!

I need to read the sequel right now. I cannot wait for the release date!

‘Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter, Book One)’ was received gratefully from the author in return for an honest and fair review.

Check out the Amazon UK and Amazon US links!

Don’t forget to add your name below for a chance to win a SIGNED Paperback!!! Good luck 🙂

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

P.S. You can always check out our reviews of some of Tim’s other works here!

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New Release, Marsh Island #1 of The Hirebomber Series, by Oliver F. Chase

309985_113790502160320_351626349_nRelease of First Instalment of Exciting New Mystery/Thriller Series!

Oliver F. Chase is a veteran Marine with a career in the FBI, whose mystery/thriller book, MARSH ISLAND (AEC Stellar Publishing Inc., November 22, 2013), is the first installment of The Hirebomber Series.

After a crushing injury, Army Ranger Phil Pfeifer is left for dead in the mountains of Iran only days before the start of the Gulf War. America cannot reveal such a violation of national sovereignty mere days before Kuwait is invaded. The body may heal but the heart takes longer.

Seeking a new life as a private investigator, Phil is hired to find a wayward husband who’s become enraptured with stars and predicting the future. A simple case and the midlife crazies stop when a boat captain is murdered at his feet and the Mafia chases him through the backstreets of Las Vegas. Pleading with Phil to continue, the terminally ill wife sends him into the tropics to face death, sharks, miles of open ocean, and prison.

Here’s what others are saying about it:

SHANNON A. THOMPSON, Award-winning author of the Young Adult Paranormal Romance, Minutes Before Sunset:

“What an absolute thrill. The mystery left me unable to guess what would happen next, and the prose was both delightful and haunting. Oliver F. Chase created a troubling beauty, even in the desert landscape, and the stars were as bright as the storyline. A great read for fans of detective fiction, suspenseful mystery, and thrillers.”

RANDOLPH PLOTTS, Avid reader of thriller books:

“The characters seemed real and knowable, and there was a wide variety of them. The author has a knack for description, not only for people but also for locations and situations! The book was a page-turner. I wanted to read just one more chapter before putting it down.”

Oliver Chase picABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Oliver graduated high school and wanted to be able to fly, which was really all he ever wanted. The war was on and the Marines offered a way.  He took it. Some five years later, Oliver was a vet with a Distinguished Flying Cross and a long list of combat missions – even a couple in that dark, secret world of political deniability. Oliver spent five years in a police department working narcotics and SWAT, and the next 22 in the FBI. He and his wife live on a small farm along the Gulf Coast near New Orleans.

Marsh Island by Oliver F. Chase 

AEC Stellar Publishing Inc. – ISBN: 0989312801

Price: $13.79 –  ISBN-13: 978-0989312806    –     Pages: 328, Paperback, 8.3 x 5.8

Pub Date: November 2013

Media Contact Heather Hebert

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Dead Water (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 6) by Tim O’Rourke

Dead Water (Kiera Hudson Series Two, #6)It is such a treat to read a Tim O’Rourke story. As it has been a few months since I have read Dead Wolf (Keira Hudson Series 2 Book 5), I was beginning to think I’d forget where I left off! Oh no, not with Tim. His writing allows for the reader to easily carry on the Keira journey, with reminders throughout where the story has been to. Therefore also allowing a fresh reader to the series to settle into the story. With Vampyrus, Lycanthrope, Skin-Walkers and more, this paranormal series will grip you like no other!

Dead Water largely follows half-breed Keira and Vampyrus Potter and Murphy travel to the Dead Water, in search of their friends, Kayla and Sam. During their journey, in the ‘pushed’ world they have found themselves in, they are gradually turning into statues, cracking and slowly turning to dust. However, during moments of ingesting a little blood they are able to keep going until they reach their destination. Upon finding it a little too easy to have reached their destination, Keira fears that not all is as it seems!

After reading the subsequent novel, fans of the series are absolutely desperate to know how Keira and Potter’s relationship will fare. In Dead Water we follow the story from Keira’s and Potter’s points of view. It is more than fair to say that at the beginning of Dead Water Keira is quite hurt and upset. After finding out who she really is, and that her lover and friend, Potter and Murphy, have been lying to her she doesn’t really have much to say to them. Potter, in particular, has a hard time from Keira especially as Keira feels betrayed by him in more ways than one. Unfortunately for Potter, Keira doesn’t want to hear that he was only trying to protect her and spare her feelings. She can’t possibly give in to him as she knows she would only get hurt again.

Poor Potter was actually betrayed himself, with the idea of upsetting and manipulating Keira. It is so clear why fans of this series love Potter. His feelings are so strong but not always transparent to Keira. However, reading his point of view the reader does understand him and the reader wants to pull Keira aside to explain this to her. There have been moments when Potter has been a little too trusting of others, especially of the female kind, and has ended up in some messy situations!

Even though there are some pretty intense moments between Potter and Keira, on the other hand there are some really great scenes with Potter and Murphy. In regards to Keira, Murphy is a little overbearing in an observant and protective manner. However, some of Murphy’s remarks to Potter about her are obvious, annoying or over the top. It’s almost like Murphy is trying to get a rise out of Potter. To which Potter replies brilliantly in his sarcastic manner which made me laugh out loud at times. This provided a great relief in between the overall tense feeling.

I also thought it was fantastic to read about Keira using her investigative skills, trying to find Kayla and Sam, as she returns to the snow-covered field where they had been involved with a wolf attack with Potter and Murphy in Chapter 4. (This is where many of Potter’s sarcasm comes to the fore with Murphy!) This scene, as well as how Keira carefully works out what has happened as she illuminates certain possibilities, really took me down memory lane to the first instalment of Keira when she first visited the Ragged Cove and met Potter and Murphy in Vampire Shift! Here Keira was taken to her first scene where a body was found just within the tree-line of a field and Keira used her ‘seeing’ abilities to spot the smallest of details! This scene is very fresh in my mind, especially after having read the Graphic Novel of Vampire Shift a few weeks ago.

The excitement grows with each chapter. There is a great use of dialogue, as in many of Tim’s books. This makes it a fun and quick read, even though the plot itself is very rich in intensity and depth. The scenery changes so much, along with the weather conditions, as the story moves on. This again is typical of Tim O’Rourke, especially in the Keira Hudson series. We begin with snow, fields, the blood red Dead Water, the upward current of the Fountain of Souls, forestry and the town of Wasp Water. You can also gauge from some of these names that Tim’s imagination takes you to a completely different ‘pushed’ world of your own as the stories remain alive and strangely real. It is also regular for Tim to introduce new characters and in this instance it comes in the form of statues, which have strangely been following Keira and her friends to the Dead Water.

The ending of this one will certainly shock many fans. On the one hand I am thinking, ‘Tim, what have you done!?’, and on the other I am quite excited of the possibilities that it could bring. I do have my own theories so I hope I am right. I personally believe that if an author does surprise you, even in a negative manner, that it is a work of brilliance. These days I don’t think it takes much to shock people, especially open-minded people. And I also like an author that isn’t too predictable!

The following instalment, ‘Dead Push’ is available now and I will hopefully be reviewing it very soon. In the meantime, come and check it out on Amazon US and Amazon UK.

Please check out all of our Tim O’Rourke reviews (below).

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 1)

Vampire Wake (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 2)

Vampire Hunt (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 3)

Vampire Breed (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 4)

Wolf House (Potter’s Story) (Kiera Hudson Series 1 Book 4.5) – novella

Vampire Hollows (Keira Hudson Series 1, Book 5)

Dead Flesh (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1)

Dead Night – Potter’s Secrets (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 1.5) – novella

Dead Angels (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 2)

Dead Statues (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 3)

Dead Seth (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 4)

Dead Wolf (Keira Hudson Series 2, Book 5)

Moonlight (The Moon Trilogy #1)

Moonbeam (The Moon Trilogy #2)

Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter #1)

Witch (Sydney Hart #1)

Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One) (Keira Hudson Series One) –  illustrated by Craig Twyman

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RELEASE DATE: Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter, Book 1) by Tim O’Rourke – Piatkus/Little Brown Publishing

Congratulations to Tim O’Rourke on his release of Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter, Book 1), published for the first time by Piatkus/Little Brown Publishing House on 15th August 2013. To help celebrate the release you can  have a chance at winning a Limited Edition t-shirt, check out the book blurb and you can also check out a little video interview introduction (by Tim) to Samantha Carter on the Piatkus website!

The e-book is released today and the paperback copies will be released in January 2014! You can find the Kindle edition on Amazon.co.uk for £4.99 and on Amazon.com for £7.74! (Prices correct at the time of publishing this post.)

Below is my review of Vampire Seeker (already published to the blog previously) with the new cover. (This is also my favourite review that I have written!!!)

I thought Tim O’Rourke had me with the Keira Hudson series. I thought the same again when I read ‘Moonlight’, from his Moon Trilogy, and then in his latest series, Sydney Hart, in the novel ‘Witch’. ‘Vampire Seeker’ is no exception to the rule. It’s wacky, adventurous, action-packed, fun and gory. From a vampire seeker in London, 2012, to a cowgirl in the Wild West in 1888, Samantha Carter is a brilliant heroine.

‘Vampire Seeker’ begins with Samantha following a Jack the Ripper copy-cat killer in London 2012. Samantha believes that the killer is a vampire and, as she has had an obsession in trying to prove their very existence, when she hears of the latest murder via a police scanner she exploits the situation by tracking him down. This is a very brave and courageous move, and even though risky, Sammy is on a mission for what she believes in. She is studying criminology but reading about, researching and studying vampires is her thing. She cannot let this moment pass. She is so close to the truth.

With the police on her tail, as she is seen near the crime scene, she follows the stranger she believes is a vampire and murderer as quickly and quietly as she can. She ends up at a Tube station and boarding a train she sees the stranger take. With only moments before the police reach her she pushes her way through the carriages to find her ‘vampire’. Throughout the following pages words are exchanged and then there is a bright light….

….when she wakes, Sammy is in the Wild West in 1888. She is dressed in denim and can handle a gun or two very well. She is in a tricky situation as soon as she wakes, with a gang of men lying around her that she has supposedly killed and another man behaving in a threatening manner towards her who has disarmed her and ready to take advantage. It is at this point that Samantha meets the Preacher, Louise, Zoe and Harry, a group of possible outlaws that treat Samantha as if she were one of their own.

To elaborate any further would completely spoil the story, however Samantha needs to work out how she arrived in the Wild West in 1888, why she woke up there and how she can get back to London, 2012. Is it connected to the murders taking place, or the possible vampire she had followed? Or is it all a dream?

Sammy’s character is very strong. She is a decisive gal with ambition and courage. She handles herself well in most situations and stands up to the other characters in the novel. Although she isn’t easily pushed around or deceived easily she still retains her femininity and sexiness. Samantha is wise and is able to pick up skills very quickly, despite having to get used to a new way of life.

Throughout ‘Vampire Seeker’ there are many action scenes that are quick-paced, violent, gory and sickening. This all adds to the thrill and excitement and the pace of the novel. Tim’s writing is so clear to the reader that although you are using your own imagination, the details of these action sequences are still vivid and clear from the writing. Every movement made can be imagined easily, allowing the reader to live in the moment themselves.

With Tim’s books that I have read thus far I have felt alive when reading them, as if beside the characters, like I am there with them. With ‘Vampire Seeker’ I felt most of this, however I not only wanted to be there with Samantha but I wanted to be Samantha Carter. I wanted to know how it would feel to shoot pistols and ride a horse in denims, belonging to a group of possible outlaws. Would I want to stay in the Wild West, 1888, or return to London in 2012?

‘Vampire Seeker’ not only makes for such a great read, but it captivates the imagination so much that you can see it, you can feel it. I was taken on a roller-coaster ride of fantasy every few pages where one minute it is like the TV series ‘Life on Mars’, the next ‘Back to the Future Part III’. The only difference being that here we have a female lead character. I have been watching a few westerns on TV recently, such as ‘Deadwood’ and ‘Hell on Wheels’, and reading Vampire Seeker simply tied in with this theme with the added bonus of the faster, more adventurous pace, along with the paranormal direction. There are also so many twists and turns that one direction that the novel took made me think of the movie ‘From Dusk ’til Dawn’ but I will not elaborate too much here, other than to say that a relationship between certain characters have similar circumstances.

The Preacher character is almost like a father-figure type character in my mind. He is out on a mission himself with his fellow riders and he is a leader. Samantha is helped by the Preacher and although he, Zoe and Louise have been friendly and accepting of Samantha, taking her in as one of their own, Sammy has her doubts about the group as the story unfolds and questions the Faith of the Preacher.

And then there is Harry, Harry Turner. I can definitely see why this novel is for new/young adults, 17 yrs plus, as the sexual tension is very hot and intense. If you are looking for a romance theme, or at least the hope of one with a strong and silent type cowboy you will not be disappointed. He is like Clint Eastwood in ‘High Plains Drifter’, which funnily enough has an almost paranormal feel but not in quite the same way that ‘Vampire Seeker’ has. Aside from Samantha, Harry is my favourite character that I cannot live without. I am just dying to know just how bad he is. I can honestly say that if the action and gore don’t get the blood pumping, Harry certainly will!

I need to read the sequel right now. I cannot wait for the release date!

‘Vampire Seeker (Samantha Carter, Book One)’ was received gratefully from the author in return for an honest and fair review.

Other series’ to try are Keira Hudson, Black Hill Farm, The Moon Trilogy and Doorways. You can find all information on Tim’s website.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

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The Wolfstone Curse, by Justin Richards

WolfstoneThrilling Paranormal Adventure Age 12+

The Wolfstone Curse by Justin Richards is a fast paced novel, full of action and adventure with a paranormal theme.  At its centre are the mysterious Wolfstone Circle and Wolfstone Manor, whose dark secrets slowly unravel. The tale extends across Europe to Russia and back in time to World War 2 and the more distant past of myth and magic surrounding werewolves. Scroll down after reading this review for links to Caroline’s review and to an exclusive interview with author Justin Richards.

In The Wolfstone Curse, Peter  is dismayed when his archaeologist father asks him to accompany him and his associates  on what he believes will be a less than exciting dig of a stone circle near the village of Wolfstone in the Coltswolds, a quiet backwater which has little to recommend itself to a teenager on the cup of adulthood. However, Peter is soon drawn into the history of Wolfstone, where the ancient inhabitants of the old manor were said to be afflicted by a curse, and where werewolves and the mystical Wolfstone Circle also feature. He soon discovers some strange goings on at the dilapidated Wolfstone Manor, the adjacent land of which is being redeveloped into a new housing development by the mysterious Sebastian Forrest, who has employed his father to investigate the circle.

He is further encouraged to stay by an unlikely friendship he strikes up with Carys, the daughter of the lady who runs the Fleece Inn, where he and his father are staying. Carys ‘ family is a font of wisdom concerning the old myths and legends of the local wolves, legends which the locals still take seriously, avoiding  going outside on nights which fall on and around the full moon. Indeed, it is said that no good comes of anyone who decides to investigate the mysteries of the stone circle…… It is not long before Peter suspects that Carys and her family know more than they are letting on and that they have their own secrets. When Peter witnesses some shocking events one night centred on the manor and the stone circle, his life and that of others is put in danger and he and Carys must travel deep into Europe to delve deeper into the mysteries and events linked to the manor and the circle and their apparent connection to experiments undertaken by Nazis in World War 2. They must use all of their intelligence and guile to work together to escape their enemies and destroy the threat of great evil before its plans can grow to fruition.

The relationship between Peter and Carys is central to the story as they work together to uncover the secrets surrounding the Wolfstone Circle and overcome the evil that is connected to it. After a bit of a shaky start, they form a tight friendship and their mutual respect grows into a budding romance as the tale progresses. Their bravery and tenacity are tested to the full as they find themselves in many fearful, hair raising and truly horrific situations, where their lives are threatened. The supporting cast includes Carys’ mother and her grandfather, Peter’s father and the owner of the Wolfstone Manor and surrounding land, Sebastian Forrest and his son David. There is also a mysterious character known as The Old One, who plays a key role.

I enjoyed how Justin Richards’ novel referred to fictional events from the past, specifically the experiments undertaken by the Nazis in World War 2 to produce genetically created Wolfen soldiers. I also liked how he referenced many of the werewolf myths and legends which exist within Europe, particularly how the power of the moonlight was harnessed by the stone circle. The use of ‘source documents’ throughout the text, including letters and a journal, add considerable depth and interest. There are a number of twists and turns in the novel which I did not see coming and I was entertained throughout.

I recommend this book to those with a reading age of 12 and above who enjoy exciting, nail biting, paranormal tales with strong elements of mystery, suspense and horror.

Copies of ‘The Wolfstone Curse’ were given to A Reader’s Review Blog by Templar Publishing in return for an honest and fair review.

Cover art by the-parish.com

Click here for an exclusive interview with author Justin Richards

Click here for Caroline’s review of The Wolfstone Curse

Templar Publishing Website

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Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One) (Keira Hudson Series One) by Tim O’Rourke and illustrated by Craig Twyman

Vampire Shift - The Graphic Novel (Kiera Hudson Series One) Vol. 1

I always read Tim O’Rourke’s work with the feeling that I am in the story with the characters and witnessing up close all of the events that take place as his novels are so full of life with believable characters. And yet I find that in Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One), with Craig Twyman’s graphics, the story becomes even more real – if that is at all possible!

Tim has this knack throughout his books to make them fun as well as descriptive, providing his readers with very strong imageries. With the help of Craig Twyman he has turned his first Keira Hudson novel into this beautifully illustrated graphic piece of art, keeping in the short, punchy descriptions and even illustrating the subtle points, i.e. car wheels squelching in mud, the flick of a cigarette, etc. This all creates a vivid scene in one’s head as it emphasizes the action, making it more dramatic. The artwork is so good that it captures even the expressions on characters faces and they are so accurate! It is amazing!!!

Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel illustrates Tim’s clarity in his writing as his descriptions in the novels really do help you to visualise very similar scenes to the ones shown in this book. Craig Twyman has been able to easily take Tim’s descriptions and turn them into another work of art through the use of illustration. It has been carried out in such a way that it is so readable and easy to follow.

On appearance it is very similar to that of a comic book, however I personally always found comics difficult to follow as there were very little explanations and not much dialogue. Here we have the description of characters/events as well as great dialogue and fantastic visuals. The graphics themselves reminded me of storyboards that are used in tv and film to aid the film makers create a scene-by-scene visual. This graphic novel would surely come in handy if Keira Hudson was to ever make it to to our screens!

The first few chapters of Vampire Shift are also available as podcasts via iTunes for FREE! It would be an experience to hear the narrative story, along with the sound effects, (from the podcasts) at the same time as following The Graphic Novel. This would give a sense of the whole atmosphere of the story.

A must-have for any fan, this is great if you would like to recap on some of the details of the story. BUT this is also a fantastic introduction into the Keira Hudson series, with the hope that a new reader would then go on to read the full novels of the series. You can click on the links to find the synopsis to Vampire Shift (Keira Hudson Series One, Book One) and my review (or below for my review), however please take note that this was one of my very first reviews, before this blog was created!

A few weeks back I was very lucky to win a signed copy of the front cover of Vampre Shift – The Graphic Novel after entering one of Tim’s competitions. I have just ordered the signed paperback copy of this Graphic Novel from Tim’s Keira Hudson shop! Go and take a sneaky peek!

I thank Tim for providing me with an e-copy of Vampire Shift – The Graphic Novel (Volume One), and for writing such awesome books. And a thank you to Craig Twyman for bringing Vampire Shift even more alive with his fantastic illustrations!

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

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‘The Wolfstone Curse’ by Justin Richards

Wolfstone‘The Wolfstone Curse’ is an action-packed thriller of horror and adventure where teenager Peter, visits the remote village of Wolfstone with his archaeologist father, Professor Crichton, who is due to be carrying out his work at the ancient Wolfstone Circle in the Cotswolds. As a teenager, in a very isolated place, Peter becomes bored and goes to explore the surrounding area, in particular the Wolfstone Manor. As the story unfolds Peter discovers the existence of werewolves and the curse that is placed upon them.

The story begins with a diary entry, dating from the Second World War, by a soldier who has just been briefed on the Nazi experiments taking place at Castle Wolfenburg. His group of commandos are sent to attack the genetically engineered SS Wolfen soldiers to prevent these experiments from taking place. There is no holding back with Justin Richards as the reader enters the story at the very beginning with plenty of action taking place. The reader is gripped from the first page!

I love the historical element of the story as the reader has insights to generations before in order to learn of the origins of the Wolfstone Circle and Manor. This in itself gives the story a great deal of depth, enabling the reader to have a great deal of background knowledge and to see the full picture and the development of the werewolves and their curse.

Whilst in Wolfstone Peter and his father are staying at The Red Fleece, a seventeenth century inn that is run by Faye Seymour, with the help of her teenage daughter, Carys. As events take place and Peter talks to them about what he has seen the reader becomes aware that Carys and her mum are not oblivious of the village life. As Peter becomes more curious and decides to explore further, Carys assists him and their relationship grows as they rely on each other during the dark and horrific times.

Peter and Carys are great, strong characters. Even when frightened they handle situations well. Although the book began with Peter, and it appeared that he alone was the hero and focus of the story, I feel that over time Carys’ character opened up and was equally as heroic as Peter. Carys seemed to be very determined to get to the bottom of the Wolfstone mystery, when Peter begun having doubts when events took a turn for the worse, and yet there were times that this led them into even more danger. However, Peter worked well with Carys and on several occasions helped her out of trouble.These two characters really compliment each other and both take on the lead roles, making them great heroes for both genders.

This action-packed adventure takes us across Europe as the characters discover a similar stone circle in Vrolask, Russia. Is there a connection between Vrolask and Wolfstone?

The way in which Richards describes Wolfstone Manor, the wolves and their actions is absolutely brilliant. These descriptions make it a fast-paced and very visual story and it is accompanied with plenty of dialogue from the characters. The reader grasps the characters and the story very easily due to this style of writing, enabling the reader to connect very quickly with the characters.

Justin’s description of some of the scenes is fantastic. His use of onomatopoeia, with words such as, smash, snap and crunch and the context in which they are used allow the reader to really get a feel for the horror and gore. There are great descriptions of the transformations, blood, gore and bones. And yet written so brilliantly in a way that is suitable for its young target audience. Short, sharp, punchy sentences are also used to emphasize the actions and their speed, which in turn helps the reader to play out the scenes in their mind. This also helps to connect with the characters and easily helps  the reader to visualise the characters and their actions. Thus, making it a more exciting read for the reader. It never loses momentum from start to finish, despite being around 430 pages.

I feel that this book is suitable and will intrigue readers from the age of 12 onwards. When reading ‘The Wolfstone Curse’ I experienced feelings that I had as a child when reading Enid Blyton’s Famous Five novels – there is this great mix of young people, mystery and curiousity that creates an eeriness. (However, ‘The Wolstone Curse’  has a more modern twist and a darker and eerier entity.) For example, when Peter checks out Wolfstone Manor it is an eery, dark and mysterious ruin in a very remote area. He and the reader knows he shouldn’t be there so he and the reader are afraid and yet far too curious to leave the story there and so Peter and the reader alike continue to delve into the unknown!. As the story moves on it becomes even more darker and horrific with the introduction of the wolves!

I say that Justin Richards’  ‘The Wolfstone Curse’ is a must-read for any reader that enjoys mystery, action/adventure and paranormal fantasy novels that are fast-paced with great heroic characters as well as fantastic supporting characters. There is never a dull moment. It is a very, very exciting thriller. Roll on July 2013 when ‘The Wolfstone Curse’ will be released and available to the public. You will not be disappointed!!!

‘The Wolfstone Curse’ was received by A Readers Review Blog by Templar Publishing in return for an honest and fair review.

Cover art by the-parish.com

Please check out Justin Richards,  the Creative Consultant for BBC Books on the Dr Who titles, author biog and look out for Tina’s review on ‘The Wolfstone Curse’ in the coming weeks with a video exclusive! ‘The Wolfstone Curse’ will be available from July 2013!

Reviewed by Caroline Barker

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The Hourglass Killer Trilogy by LR Potter

The Hourglass Killer Trilogy - All 3 BooksWhat a brilliant and carefully written dark, dark crime thriller? Poor Tess!!! Tess Champion is a police detective in Colarado, and we begin the first novel, ‘Dwindling Sands’, with Tess being subjected to a violent, torturous, sexual attack in her own home. As she returns to work, alongside her partner, Anthony Delgado, they are faced with a murder of a woman with similar scenarios that Tess found herself in. Is she going mad? Is she scared after what happened to her? Is she adding two and two together and coming up with five? However, over time there are more murders, each with a possible link to her ordeal.

Tess, although now feeling vulnerable and weak, is actually one of the strongest heroine’s that I have read about. Mentally, she has been teased and taunted, confused and, after the third book, ‘Cascading Sands’, in that much despair that it is a wonder that she doesn’t end her own pain. However, she keeps on going. She is a fighter deep down and her inner strength helps her to survive.

As Tess’ attacker knew her by name, it is believed throughout that it must be somebody that she knew. There are five main characters to keep you guessing; Anthony Delgado, her partner; Carter, her twin brother (even though unlikely, you can’t rule anyone out!); Thom Wyndom, her new love interest; Dominic Wyndom, Thom’s brother and an acquaintance to Tess, and finally; Dane Carver, the first and only true love from Tess’ past. I kept an open mind as different areas of the story led me to believe that each of these characters were capable and had the opportunity but as the story unfolded there were so many possible scenarios that the reader simply cannot determine the culprit until it is all made clear at the end.

Due to the motivation, the obsession, of the murderer and their perseverance it does feel very personal. Therefore, each event that happens with Tess is very believable and horrific. He, the murderer, is referred to as ‘The Angry Man’ and, in the prologue, he is the first character the reader encounters. We learn of his obsession, his need for control and throughout the book we know how he despises those he deems vulnerable and weak. These can be disposed of, as far as he is concerned, as there is no real need for them.

Initially, I was planning to read ‘Dwindling Sands (Book 1)’ of The Hourglass Killer Trilogy and separate each book with another of my choice in between. However, I was hooked! Each book of this trilogy is carefully interwoven with the next that I just had to simply carry on reading. The stories, settings, characters, etc, are so fluent that it felt like I was reading only one novel. ‘The Hourglass Trilogy’ is absolutely gripping, with so many twists and turns and unexpected turn of events. Just when the reader thinks that there are no more ordeals for Tess – bam! – another hits you right in the face.

There are many adult themes in these novels, such as abduction, rape and murder. Hence the strongly recommended 18+ year age warning. LR Potter’s style of writing these horrific scenes is amazing. The reader feels so tense in parts and there are some scenes that are creepy and yet the writing of these scenes is not over-exaggerated. LR Potter displays her sensitivity towards these scenes when she describes Tess at her worst, after each ordeal. It would be so nice just to pick Tess up from the book and pop her in your pocket to keep her safe! She is in trouble, without even realising it at times, and, working for the police department, she feels like she should be able to protect herself. It is so upsetting, knowing that she is vulnerable and a possible target/link to this monster.

I am disappointed to let Tess go – although to be fair she has been through enough. However, the whole setting and characters of these books make me want to read more about her. If you are interested in crime thrillers this is a must-read. If you would like to try a crime thriller for the first time, ‘The Hourglass Killer Trilogy’ will blow you away, at the same time as keeping you on your toes. After this absolutely brilliant introduction to LR Potter’s work , I am definitely looking forward to reading more of her novels.

‘The Hourglass Killer Trilogy’ was sent to me for the purpose of a honest and just review. Received gratefully, with thanks, from the copyeditor, Carolyn Pinard.

Reviewed by Caroline Barker