Death Rings A Bell - You'll Fall For This Read

 

Death Rings A Bell

By Linda Hope Lee

Nina Foster is delighted at the invitation to be a presenter at the prestigious Pacific University's Literary Festival. Nina is happy to Juggle her librarian duties with a return to her alma mater for this event, and the excitement of a reunion with her English professor and mentor. When Death Rings A Bell in the campus tower, Nina is faced with a challenging mystery. She doesn't believe it was suicide, as the police concluded. She's determined to find out who killed her mentor, and why. Newspaper reporter Stephen Kraslow does all he can to help his dear girlfriend in finding clues. Nina greatly appreciates the help, although at times she surprisingly wonders if mysteries are actually easier to solve than relationships.

Nina begins her search for clues by talking with the only witness of Gwyneth Miller's plummit to death from the top of the tower. It was the sound of the bell that grabbed Cara's attention as the professor's life ended in a tragic plunge. Nina does not rely only on the account related by this shocked student of what she saw. It doesn't take long before Nina and Stephen have gathered information indicating motives, means, and opportunity for a list of suspects, including university staff, students, and even noted authors on site as headline speakers for the Literary Festival. Clues accumulate from conversations overheard, suspicious behavior, physical finds, and more unexpected sources. What could an exploration inside the tower itself reveal? Nina hopes to get the key, get that door open, and check it out from the ground level and all the way up to the top, where Gwyneth spent her last moments. Danger threatens as the suspect list narrows.

There's no rest for the amateur sleuth when she take breaks from her analysis either. She's needed at her library, she has an important presentation to get ready for the Literary Festival that will begin on schedule, and Stephen has an important question about their future, hovering over them. Is Nina ready for the next big step in their relationship?

Linda Hope Lee has authored a fun puzzler, that's a continuation of the engaging Nina Foster Mystery Series. The recurring characters are a delight to meet again, and the new cast will tickle your curiosity. The plot is intriguing, the killer is cunning, and and the novel is entertaining. Whether you read to try your hand at solving the mystery, or purely for the story, you'll enjoy this cozy mystery.

A resident of the Pacific Northwest, author Linda Hope Lee writes contemporary romance, romantic suspense, and mystery novels. She also enjoys watercolor paintings, photography, collecting children's books, and anything to do with wire-haired terriers.

Behind The Mask - A Revealing Read

 

Behind The Mask
By Dana Ridenour

Undercover FBI agents know the mask must stay in place until the assignment is done. Lives depend on it, especially their own. Special Agent Alexis Montgomery, Lexie, is fresh from her training in Virginia and now on her first undercover case across the country in Los Angeles. Now she's under the gun, living under an assumed identity, and infiltrating a dangerous cell of the Animal Liberation Front. As Lexie goes to work connecting with ALF members, she begins to realize the emotional depths of this work. Over time she's building friendships with suspects. She's being pulled into some of their beliefs as she sinks deeper into their lives. She's filled with self-doubt over the betrayal her work requires of her. The job calls for Lexie to build relationships in order to betray relationships. Is that something she can do to her new friends? If not, what danger will then surround her?

While on the job an undercover agent like Lexie, who lives for an extended period in isolation from her real life learns about the loneliness, high stress, and desperation that is found Behind The Mask. Even her inside-the-FBI contact agent Kate is a new friendship for Lexie, and they have a lot to learn about each other. An opportunistic meeting with Savannah, a freshman at the college, convinces Lexie she may have found the key to connecting with the dangerous group the FBI suspects of domestic terrorism. The connection with Savannah leads to key actors Nick and Haley, but also brings a devastating dilemma. Lexie and Savannah quickly became fast friends, true best friends. This sincere relationship could be an achilles heel to the whole FBI operation, or could Lexie turn it into the key to prosecution? Will Lexie have to betray Savannah to get what she wants, and if so how will Savannah and her fellow ALF members react to that?

Savannah's boyfriend Nick masterminds a violent action against a laboratory doing animal testing. He includes Savannah for her first underground action, and also her roommate Haley who has been a member of the ALF for several years. When plans go deadly wrong, Savannah finds herself up to her chin in deep, hot water. She's sworn to secrecy by Nick and Haley as they all try to evade arrest. Lexie has a theory what happened, but she desperately needs to obtain proof, before her FBI managers close her case prematurely.

Author Dana Ridenour creates a thrilling, psychological puzzle with great, unexpected twists. The plot includes fascinating insights into the pressures and perils of an undercover agent's job. This first book in the Lexie Montgomery FBI series is a fast paced read that still takes time to explore the multi-dimensional personalities of the characters and their relationships with each other.

Dana Ridenour is an award-winning author and retired FBI Special Agent. During her twenty-year career she was assigned to four different FBI Field Divisions and had the opportunity to work a wide variety of cases to include multi-faceted narcotics investigations, domestic sex trafficking of minors, and violent crime. She spent most of her career as an FBI undercover operative.

Dana’s first novel, Behind The Mask, won numerous literary awards and was named one of the Best Indie Books of 2016 by Kirkus Reviews. Her second novel, Beyond The Cabin received the 2018 Royal Palm Literary Award for Best Thriller or Suspense Novel. The third book in the FBI undercover series, Below The Radar, was the 2020 Readers' Favorite Gold Medal Winner in the Fiction - Thriller - Terrorist genre as well as the 2021 Feathered Quill Book Awards Gold/First Place winner for best Adult Fiction. Dana’s three novels are currently in development for television.

A Thriller Recommended At All Costs

 

At All Costs

The Volya Series

By J. Robert Kinney

Evil and ruthless terror spreads worldwide from the Nasha Volya, a dangerous and illicit organization growing stronger than ever before. Their reach is worldwide. Can a U.S. Congressman be working with them too? Franklin Holt and his small team of three freelancing federal agents vow to stop this menacing group, once and for all. If unsuccessful, their cost is the ultimate price. This team fights a mission to make the world safe, although they stand now at a huge disadvantage. Framed for crimes they didn’t commit, the team members are separated, and now operate from the shadows: from behind bars, and on the run. They are hunted by both the law and the Volya, yet their fight goes on to accomplish their mission At All Costs. How can they coordinate their efforts? Can they stop the dire threat in time?

Author J. Robert Kinney has created a thrilling Volya series. In this third book of the series the stakes stab through the heart and soul of civilization, and time is running out. This fight for justice and freedom propels Franklin and his band - Sloan, Shannon and Eve, to different destinations around the world. Franklin was never trained for what he must face. In fact, all their skills are taxed. Nevertheless, the chase is on. They must stop the Volya and unearth the truth before countless innocent lives are lost. Everything is at stake. This time none of them are prepared for what this battle will cost, or the ghosts from the past they'll resurrect.

The pacing of this thriller is high speed action and there are many surprises around the corners. The plotting is skillful. There is more that this author has woven into this story of intrigue. Author J. Robert Kinney has thoughtfully breathed life into these characters. Their motives and personalities are fascinating and compel them in their actions. As the story continues, more clues about the characters are artfully revealed. The history and human nature behind the Volya are as gripping as the lives of the other characters.

The tension, suspense, and chills in this story will have you under an adrenaline spell throughout.

Dr. J. Robert Kinney is an award-winning suspense/thriller author. His published novels include the award-winning trilogy, The Volya Series. The second in the series, Ring of Conspiracy was named the Best Suspense of 2020, winning the Silver Falchion from the Killer Nashville International Writers Conference. His most recent, At All Costs was a finalist for the Claymore Award for Best Upcoming Thriller. With a PhD in political science, with specialties in international relations & terrorism studies, as well as degrees in psychology and forensic science, Kinney has worked in research for a government contractor, in federal public policy in DC, and taught university courses on global politics.

The Bones At Point No Point - A Thomas Austin Crime Thriller

 

The Bones At Point No Point

By D.D. Black

When justice is delivered and a serial killer is behind bars, society can breath a collective sigh of relief, but not in “the holiday baby butcher case”. Thomas Austin is a retired NYPD detective, having served loyally for twenty years, and this case had sucked life out of him, leaving an indelible mark. Moved to the Pacific Northwest, Austin opened a business for a new start, but now the killings have begun again. Why has the torment followed him across the country from New York? The case continues to haunt him, now with a long and grisly reach, from prison.

A serial killer, a baby butcher caught in New York after a horrific murder there, was returned to Seattle to stand trial for her murders previously committed at that city. Now notorious Lorraine D'Antonia is locked away in the maximum security wing of the Washington Correction Center for Women, case closed. Until a disturbing report surfaces two years later. Someone is butchering holidays again, a sinister intent by a force of mystery.

Thomas Austin is called by the Kitsap County Sheriff's office for his expertise on his work on the case in New York. How will he answer? Will his response come in time, before another chilling discovery is reported of The Bones At Point No Point. Is the world worth saving, one case at a time?

The small county sheriff office have their hands full with a gut-wrenching murder mystery. Their best officers are on the case, but there are a lot of clues to sift through, and some sharp detective work needed. There's a lot to learn from the horrific murders committed by the imprisoned Lorraine D'Antonia's, and there are new twists. The most experienced officers, and all hands are on deck in this investigation. Time is not on their side, as the next holiday is fast approaching.

Intrigue hooks you from the start of this suspenseful thriller. You'll be analyzing the clues along with the team, and be mesmerized by the most compelling scenes. The author skillfully creates the most interesting characters. Thomas Austin resonates as he acts on impulse, and on instinct from his years of experience. His dearest companion, his irresistible, scruffy dog Run brings out a most touching side to Austin. So does an intrepid reporter, Anna. Revelations of Austin's personal history bring an added dimension and tone to his personality. The team members at the Sheriff's office are so artfully created by the author, they soon feel like friends in pursuit of answers along with the reader, and working hard to deliver results, or try to. It's a treat to learn about them when they're on the job, and during off hours. Beware though, danger can strike at any time when a serial killer is on the loose.

D.D. Black is the author of the Thomas Austin Crime Thrillers and other Pacific Northwest crime novels that are on the way. When he's not writing, he can be found strolling the beaches of the Pacific Northwest, cooking dinner for his wife, and throwing a ball for his corgi over and over and over. To learn more, check out ddblackauthor.com.

Suddenly Snow - Warms The Heart

 

Suddenly Snow

By Susanne Bacon

Stranded by a sudden snowstorm, in the small and isolated Victorian town of Wycliff, all the holiday day tripping tourists enjoying the sights are stuck. Fortunately for the last of the stragglers desperate for a warm place to stay, The Gull's Nest Bed and Breakfast has some room left. When the last of the rooms is filled, there are still other visitors with nowhere to go. The owner, Abigail Winterbottom is pressed to find still more room to fit everyone. Abigail had not even planned to be home for the holidays. She had troubles of the heart. She'd hoped to reconcile with Hank, who had left her. She'd hoped to revive their love, one last try, but destiny had changed her travel plans to go see Hank. Now there is Suddenly Snow and she has a Bed and Breakfast overflowing with unprepared guests. None of them had suitcases, but they all carried baggage with them. Like Abigail, they each have problems of their own. Can these strangers find ways to help each other find hope, resolve issues, and make new friends?

As you read about the different groups of people who travel to Wycliff just before Christmas, it's fascinating to meet them on the pages of this uplifting book. What each of them faces is so different, so interesting, and yet very relatable. They turn up on the doorstep, covering their troubles with smiles and silence. There are signs that reveal their stories, and it's through helping others that each of them find they are also helped themselves.

How can a group of strangers, isolated from their everyday lives help a single parent father and his daughter? And also a pregnant woman and her friend. How about Abigail's long time, blind friend? And an amazing saga of triplet sisters leading unique adult lives? Anyone wondering about the story of a non-practicing doctor? It's intriguing to read about these sincerely struggling characters, some desperate, who have such vivid personalities skillfully portrayed by this talented author. Even the town of Wycliff itself is a sweet community presence that comes to life for these holidays and the Suddenly Snow.

Susanne Bacon was born in Stuttgart, Germany, has a double Master’s degree in literature and linguistics, and has been working as an author, journalist, and columnist for over 20 years. She lives with her husband in the South Puget Sound region in Washington State. Suddenly Snow is her sixth Wycliff novel.

The Everlasting Gift - Reading Sunshine

 

The Everlasting Gift

By David-Matthew Barnes

Do whatever it takes to bring some sunshine into this world. A noble thought in a big world. Easier said than done. Oh! How the effort creates the potential for unexpected, and even life changing results, with ripples in so many directions. In the poignant book The Everlasting Gift, Sharleen has an incredible talent as a pianist. She has a real flair for music and for teaching and inspiring others. She doesn't see the beautiful potential of her abilities. She only sees obstacles that spring up in her way. She struggles to keep herself going after facing a series of disappointments and tragedies. How can she summon the courage to step forward into her future?

Sharleen is studying to be a teacher. She doesn't have the money to complete her course work. A temporary job opportunity comes up to organize students for a dramatic arts performance. The payment for this work is needed for Sharleen to complete her college studies, but this work comes with an uncomfortable twist. It requires her to return to the grade school she graduated from. How difficult is it to go back again? She's worried about what she may find there. Can she confront, and find a way to live with the memories she's buried deep inside? She has to try, or risk losing the future she dreams of.

Working on the stage show at her old school, Sharleen meets an interesting group of young students, including Victor with his dancing skills and Ivy with her amazing singing voice. Behind their talents though, this group of young students face some difficult, emotional issues. Sharleen is impressed with these kids, and her spirit begins to revive. Her grandmother continues to be her inspiration as well, and a most important relationship in Sharleen's life. The school administrators and faculty are not all on board with Sharleen and her efforts. Some need to gain better understanding, while others seem determined to undermine all Sharleen's hopes for bringing sunshine into her students' world. Some parents are also unsure. Sharleen is challenged to foster these relationships and offer hope to them all, including one parent in particular. Ivy's father, Jake is a single parent and struggling with his own grief over his wife's death years ago. The connection between Jake and Sharleen creates magical sparks, and together they share The Everlasting Gift.

David-Matthew Barnes is the bestselling author of fifteen novels, three collections of poetry, seven short stories, and more than seventy stage plays that have been performed in three languages in twelve countries. To date, he has written six produced screenplays, including the coming-of-age indie drama Frozen Stars and the award-winning Dutch film Wagon. He writes in multiple genres, primarily young adult, romance, thriller, and horror.

Dig Into The Nighthawkers

 

The Nighthawkers

By Amy L. Bernstein

Archaeologist Pauline Marsh may be haunted by the past. She's hearing paranormal voices in her head, that other people don't. These voices want something. They're looking to reconnect with love, and they are reaching out to Pauline for help. Why Pauline? With the difficult, lonely childhood Pauline emerged from, she feels completely unlovable and certainly unable to help others. Yet, these voices persist. Mysterious, physical seizures surge within Pauline with no warning. She dreads these episodes which she calls the pulse. What are these forces bearing down upon her?

There is hope on Pauline's horizon, and his name is Grey Henley. He's a handsome and charismatic man, and they seem to share a hot connection. These lovers plan a future together, treasure seeking for an immensely rich lifestyle. What impact does ambition have on love? And can true love survive the secrets they keep from each other, including those voices speaking to Pauline?

At Carthage University, it's graduation day full of ceremony, speeches, celebrations, and receptions. Dean Nojes praises Pauline, who is the recipient of Carthage's most coveted academic prize. Pauline feels unworthy of it, but she is obligated to show up at the Dean's reception. She meets the most charming, Grey Henley with his appealing, crooked grin and his sweet talk. That night they share an out-of-body experience, and are thrilled with the adventure of it. They want this fantastic escapade to last a lifetime. Grey thinks he's found the girl of his dreams, and Pauline feels Grey is the family life she's never known and always longed for.

Ambition is a powerful emotion, and it can saturate a person's spirit. This dynamic couple together pursue archaeological finds, but in time their nighthawking turns darkly to profiteering. Despite Pauline's reluctance, they partner with a man Grey knows to sell their discoveries. There's something odd about this new partner, Tyrone Lake. Although the trio start out successfully as a team, fate, or something, steps in with an unexpected twist.

This book is a thought provoking journey into the powers that lie within a person, and where empowerment, once triggered can lead a person. There is more than one way for Pauline to achieve what she wants more than anything in this world, but can she find her way? The characters in this story are fascinating, and the wordly as well as paranormal hurdles they must leap are emotionally challenging. The Nighthawkers push the boundaries as they delve into the riches of the past, and readers are treated to the excitement of their finds.

Amy Bernstein writes stories that let readers feel, while asking them to think. Her literary preoccupations include rooting for the underdog and putting ordinary people in difficult situations to see how they wriggle out. Amy is an award-winning journalist, playwright, and certified nonfiction book coach. When she’s not writing about romance, including explicit romance novels, or dystopian futures, she loves listening to jazz and classical music, drinking wine with friends, and prowling around Baltimore’s waterfront.