Werewolves – Review – A Beast Within by Aidan Lucid @TheZargothian

Posted on November 30, 2023 by fundinmental

MY REVIEW

A man…on a lonely road…trying to do a good deed. His family is attacked by werewolves, but they get away….

I love Prologues, and A Beast Within by Aidan Lucid hooked me opening page.

Jeremy wanted to go straight, put his criminal life behind him. He is determined to make it so his mother didn’t regret helping him…again. He hits all the pitfalls and discrimination of real life criminals. He was so dejected he made the call to Stephen. We all know this will end badly.

They are on the run, after a failed bank heist. A quiet farmhouse holds a dark secret, and these three criminals are going to get more than they bargained for.

So many scenarios ran through my mind. I had a feeling…maybe…but I had to wait for Aidan Lucid to finish his story. He kept me guessing, but I was very happy with the ending.

A Beast Within is a quick read, a novella filled with action that runs at a quick pace from beginning to end.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos — 4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

Have you experienced true terror? For three criminals, they’re about to face it head-on!Fresh out of prison, Jeremy vows to steer clear of a life of crime and clean up his act. But he quickly realizes that to the world, he will always be an ex-con and plunges back into his old ways. The perfect opportunity presents itself in the form of his best friend, Stephen, and his spunky girlfriend, Natalie.After a failed bank robbery, Jeremy and his accomplices’ identities are made. So, they find refuge in the home of a typical Christian family. Their getaway should have been smooth sailing…after all it was three armed criminals against the wholesome Boyd family.But the Boyds are hiding dark secrets of their own…Get the latest pulse-pounding, thrilling novella by Aidan Lucid today! “I loved this story. From the first page I was hooked! There are twists and turns.” – Hanna (Booksirens reviewer).“Lucid does it again with characters you can root for and action that holds you on the edge of your seat. Beware the beasts that prowl at night!” – Priscilla Bettis, author.

Genre: Fiction, Horror
114 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication November 10, 2023

ABOUT AIDAN LUCID

Aidan was born in July 28th, 1981 in County Kerry, Ireland. Growing up, he always loved reading books, especially those in the fantasy genre. Books on the supernatural also filled his shelves as a kid and still do to this today.

Mr. Lucid’s journey as a writer began back in 2002 after having a religious experience. In 2004, he plucked up the courage to send out some of my material to magazines, newspapers etc. and seven items Aidan wrote were published that year. For the next two years Aidan received diplomas of distinction in creative writing and freelance journalism.

Back in April 2005 Aidan began writing, The Lost Son, which was then under a different title. In 2010 it was published by a Texas-based publisher but in 2013, he left that publisher. Mr. Lucid listened to feedback from readers on the novel and made some changes, adding new characters, fleshing out the story a bit more etc. Fast-forward to October 2019, Jongleur Books published The Lost Son.

Aidan Lucid says, “Writing is my life and it fills me with joy to see people enjoy my works. It’s my aim to let people escape the mundane world we live in and get carried away by the adventures both in The Zargothian Saga books and other future works that will be released over the next few years. As an author, I love listening to the feedback readers give me. It’s always fun to meet and engage with the audience. I love doing interviews and talking about my writing journey, hoping that it will inspire another author to pursue their dream.”

In July of 2023, Lucid finally achieved another one of his goals. The Lost Son (Second Edition) was awarded the Silver Literary Titan Book Award. Now he can finally say that he is an, “award-winning author”.

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Giveaway & Review – The Dolphin Dentist by Cheryl DaVeiga @ireadbooktours @BiffBamBooza

Posted on November 29, 2023 by fundinmental

Book Details:

Book Title:  The Dolphin Dentist: No Sharks Allowed by Cheryl DaVeiga
Category: Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7), 44 pages
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Publisher:  Waterhole Productions LLC
Release date:   November, 2023
Content Rating: G. This children’s book is for everyone.

MY REVIEW

As soon as I saw The Dolphin Dentists by Cheryl DaVeiga, I had to have it. I love anything to do with marine life, oceans and seas. The illustrations are vibrant and amusing, sure to catch the eye of a child of any age. The characters are fun and endearing. Even a great white shark can be afraid of something. And who does like going to the dentist? Not me. What is the dentist afraid of? Sharks.

It is poetically written, with a rhythm that is easy to read along to. I had a smile on my face all the way through. I cannot imagine a child not being enchanted by The Dolphin Dentist. I sure was. I loved it and it will help a child (or all of us) realize, we are all afraid of something, but to face it before it becomes an even bigger problem, is the best solution. I give it five shining stars.

Book Description:

COMING SOON! A “Fin-tastic” adventure Like No Other!

Fearless Flossy, a mighty great white shark, has a secret—she’s terrified of going to the dentist. Dr. Dribble, the big-hearted dolphin dentist, has a jaw-dropping fear of his own, and a strict “No Sharks Allowed” policy. When Fearless Flossy makes an unannounced visit to Dr. Dribble’s office, it’s the start of an underwater adventure like no other! This ‘fin-tastic’ story is must-read for kids and parents alike. Young readers will be immersed in a tale of courage, compassion, and conquering fear, while giggling and cheering for these unlikely friends along the way.

Dive in with a big Biff Bam Booza smile.

Buy the Book
Biff Bam Booza
Amazon
add to goodreads

Meet the Author:

Cheryl DaVeiga is an award-winning children’s book author and singer/songwriter residing in New Jersey. After a career in business, Cheryl’s passion for music caught up with her, and she began writing and recording children’s songs as her alter ego, CADi Grace. She then moved on to adult songs, including an ASCAP award-winning veteran’s anthem, the featured song for the State of Alabama Bicentennial Celebration, the theme song to the philanthropic Where Angels Play Foundation, and a NJ Arts’ pick for top NJ summer songs. She’s also written songs for artists on critically acclaimed albums.

You can find her books and animated sing-along song videos on her website for kids and kid-lovers– BiffBamBooza.com.

Biff Bam Booza books have received numerous awards and acclaim, including Mom’s Choice Gold, Purple Dragonfly, Eric Hoffer, and Literary Titan book awards, a Readers’ Favorite 5-star rating, and a Kirkus Review Magazine feature.

Cheryl lives in Tucson, Arizona, and spends summers in her native New Jersey.

connect with the authors: website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ twitter ~ bookbub ~ goodreads

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Giveaway – Fallen Raven Duet by Diana A Hicks @XpressoTours @diana_hicks

Posted on November 29, 2023 by fundinmental

Fallen Raven Duet
Diana A. Hicks
Publication date: July 24th 2023
Genres: Contemporary, New Adult, Romance

Now a 2023 Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal Winner in the Romance – Contemporary genre!

“Diana A. Hicks painted a slow-burn romance balanced on the dark edge of danger…Fallen Raven will capture the minds of readers who enjoy Mafia political romances with plenty of action to entertain them.” – Readers’ Favorite Reviewer

Both books in the Fallen Raven Duet included in one bundle.
Fallen Raven, Book One

Seventeen-year-old Aurora Vitali didn’t have the best life in Las Vegas, but it was a place to call home. When her father scores a win after so many fails, he abruptly moves the whole family to the Upper East Side in New York City. Aurora is quickly seduced by the glitz and glamour of her new world, where designer clothes, limos, and beach parties are the norm.

Her first day at their elite school, she meets Enzo Alfera, one of the royals. He’s rich, gorgeous, and so dangerous. The magnetic pull she feels when he’s near is absolutely irresistible. She’s warned to stay away, and that’s exactly what she plans to do. Except every time their paths cross, neither one of them can deny their powerful attraction.

Going against their parents’ wishes, they give into their burning desires. He’s dark and cunning. She’s sweet and innocent. Together, they are explosive.

But their parents have plans of their own. The choices they make to get ahead threaten to pull Aurora and Enzo apart. Now the star-crossed lovers have to decide if their forbidden love is worth going against everything and everyone.

Enzo knows what he wants. And he’s willing to do whatever it takes to keep Aurora for himself. If he fails, it could destroy them both.

Fallen Raven, Book Two
I should’ve stayed dead.
I should’ve run when he challenged the winning bid.
I should’ve said no to his contract.

But the ruthless Don Enzo Alfera gets what he wants.
He wants revenge.
More than anything, he wants me.

A Note from Diana: Fallen Raven Duet is a standalone romance, featuring Enzo and Aurora, and is part of the Crime Society World. No cliffhangers. Complete Story. This modern day Romeo and Juliet retelling is about never letting go. Check TW
This book features:
He falls first
Star-Crossed lovers
Angst, family feud
Forbidden love

Goodreads / Amazon

EXCERPT

“You’re bleeding, Maxim. Let me look.” He gestured for Maxim to sit.

Maxim raised his hand and stopped Anatoli in his tracks. “No. Let my wife tend to my wounds.”

“Ooo-kay.” Anatoli looked as confused as I was.

“Leave us.” Maxim braced his good arm on his knees and released a breath.

“Everything you need is in the bathroom,” Anatoli said to me then turned to leave. He paused when he spotted the unhinged door. “I’ll get someone to fix that.”

“Thanks.” I smiled at him.

The wife in me wanted to tell my husband to go to hell. But the doctor in me was already thinking of all the things that could go wrong if I didn’t check on Maxim. He was tired because his body was working overtime, trying to heal itself. But also, because he just cracked open a heavy wooden door with his foot.

Cursing under my breath, I strode to the bathroom and got all the essentials to wash out his wounds. When I returned, Maxim hadn’t moved an inch.

“We should rinse your wounds twice a day, then cover them. They’ll heal faster that way.” I approached him tentatively, the way one would do with a wild animal because that was exactly what he was. My gaze swept from the splint and stained gauze to the blood seeping through his white dress shirt in two different places. “I need to take a look first.”

He nodded. With a sigh, he undid all the buttons, then sat back to let me help him with it. I pulled the fabric up then pushed it over his shoulders. The soft hair on his chest bristled the skin on my arms and chest. To my surprise, the gentle exchange eased my nerves.

“Getting out of bed today was a bad idea.” I picked at the gauze and removed it.

“I had things to attend to.”

“Right. You had that illegal wedding to go to.” I shot back.

“Yes.” He chuckled. “I did.”

“This shouldn’t hurt. It’s just water.” I squeezed the squirt bottle and rinsed his entire shoulder.

Even if fear wasn’t a big part of the equation anymore, I still couldn’t get myself to look at him. Not even when he cocked his head to look at me. His hot breath left a warm trail that ran from my cheek all the way down to my hip. He gripped his thigh with long fingers as his inspection of me continued.

“Little late for that, don’t you think?” I sneered.

“What’s that?”

“Buyer’s remorse.”

“I didn’t pay for you.” He took a lock of my hair. “Your hair is shorter.”

“I cut it after…” I’d cut it shortly after Luca left, but Maxim didn’t need to know that. I swallowed and bit my tongue for offering him intimate details of my life. “You were spying on me.”

“Not for long.” He squeezed his eyes shut. “Your scent reminds me of something. But I can’t remember what?”

“Probably your dungeon. I’ve showered six times since I left and I can’t seem to scrub the stench off me.” I shuffled back. “I need you to get up to get the other two sutures.”

Slowly, as if he were trying not to scream in pain, he rose to his feet. When I stepped into his circle, he bent down to whisper in my ear, “You smell fine to me.”

The jittery energy intensified and magnified my senses. I could feel the air between us shifting, his breath on my neck, and the sandalwood scent on his skin. Though I kept my head down, I could feel his eyes on me, regarding me with curiosity. He was the wounded one. But he watched me so intently, it reminded me of a predator spying on his prey.

“Stop messing with your splint. Or your nose will not heal properly.” I pointed at the blood fingerprints on it.

“It itches.” He grunted. “How long before I can take it off.”

“How long has it been. It usually takes about two weeks.” I squirted his side.

He flinched, reaching for my wrist. I froze, keeping my gaze on the stitches and the blood running down his side. And because my brain hates me, I thought of our impending wedding night. Though by now, I was sure that would not happen today. The man could barely move without wincing. As formidable as he was, and though he acted like a beast, he was still human.

His fingers slid up my arm. “This one hurts the most.”

“I bet. There was a lot of debris to clear out. I had to dig deep.” I freed my hand. “It is healing fine. I can give you something for the pain.”

“Fuck.” He made to touch his wound then stuffed his hand in the pocket of his trousers. “I don’t know if I should risk taking more drugs from you. Will you poison me this time?”

In his defense, I had considered the option. “Not tonight.”

He scoffed. “If Anatoli hadn’t come to his senses, I’d still be unconscious.”

So Anatoli was the one who foiled our plans. Coward. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I shrugged. “Maybe you too will come to your senses soon.”

I strode to the bathroom and rummaged through the medical kit Anatoli had left for me. I went through a bunch of bottles until I found a strong pain killer. Something to knock Maxim out for the night. And every night after that, until I found a way out of this place.

“For the pain.” I offered him two pills and a glass of water.

“Am I so ugly, you can’t even look at me?” He took the meds and knocked them back. “My senses are fine, by the way.”

“Right. Because kidnapping a woman for revenge is the epitome of mental health.” I turned to leave.

He wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me toward him. “You have no idea what your family is capable of.”

“You’re wrong. I know exactly what they can do.” I jerked to free myself, but he held me tighter. I was no match for his strength. I exhaled. “One day my love will find me. He will make sure you pay.”

“Your love?” He let out a dark chuckle.

“Yes.” I panted a breath. “And when he does, he will chop you up and feed you to your dogs.”

“He sounds violent.”

Luca was an erudite, a distinguished professor despite all my efforts to corrupt him. He wasn’t a brute like Maxim, punching his way through doors. But regardless of their extreme opposites, Luca would find a way to save me. I knew he would. I just had to hang on a little longer.

“He will come for me. You can be sure of that.”

“The only thing I can be sure of, princess, is that it’s time for bed. And since Prince Charming isn’t here, I guess I would have to do.”

Author Bio:

Diana A. Hicks is an award-winning author of steamy romantic suspense and science-fiction romance.

When Diana is not writing, she enjoys hot yoga, kickboxing, traveling, and indulging in the simple joys of life like wine and chocolate. She lives in Atlanta and loves spending time with her two children and husband. Connect with Diana on social media to stay up to date on her latest releases.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook Page / Facebook Group / Twitter / Instagram / TikTok / Amazon / Bookbub

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Review – Ahriman: The Spirit Of Destruction by Puja Guha @GuhaPuja

Posted on November 28, 2023 by fundinmental

Amazon / KindleUnlimited / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I love a book that can get all my emotions roiling and Puja Guha did just that with Ahriman. From gut wrenching sorrow, to savage torture, to a love that will break all the rules, I was hooked from beginning to end.

We start off with a late night call and Kasem races to meet Lila. And, we begin the story of Ahriman: The Spirit of Destruction.

We will travel from New York to Kuwait.

Years later, Petra is awakened by an early morning call, cutting short her vacation.

We are in Kuwait. Their is political unrest. There are those that are pushing for Sharia law, wanting to role back any progress they have gained, but the Emir has other ideas. Seeing what is happening in the world today, we all know that is a possibility.

May 15, 2021, is a date that will change the face of the Middle East forever, or will it? What is the plan? Can it be stopped?

Petra had retired from active field duty, but she was the only agent suitable for the job. She has struggled with PTSD and I wonder what happened to cause it. Her career hinges on her decision. They are, more or less, blackmailing her into doing it. And, she will be on her own. It makes me wonder how these undercover operations work in real life. The Agency is a swift action oriented organization that members around the world agreed to. It allows for action without all the oversight and approvals that other organizations may require.

Petra has an incentive to come home from this mission. She has a significant other, Grant, who is also an agent, and though she hasn’t said those three little words, he has. His specialty is IT, and it will come in handy.

We travel from the past to the present and back again as Puja Guha fills in all the blanks and keeps us informed of current events. Terrorism. Betrayal from your own always cuts the deepest. Tragic terrorist actions will change Kasem and Petra’s lives forever.

Kasem didn’t deserve the hand he was dealt. I feel so bad for him and I don’t see a good ending for him. Will Lila ever know the truth? Will Kasem?

General Mayed…evil…I hope he gets taken down in a brutal, savage way. Do unto others should apply to him.

Puja Guha has written a realistic novel of terrorism, betrayal, and love. The manipulation and psychological torture was so real. Ahriman is the story of the creation of an assassin. In the spy game, we have to watch out for those rogue elements that can change history. It makes me wonder how an intelligence agency can keep track of all the double crosses and convoluted ‘missions’ among so many players.

This amazing debut novel brings to mind a suspense series that I have been following for years, the Leine Basso series by D V Berkom. A lone woman agent is sent in to stop a terrorist action that will reverberate around the world. I can’t think of a thing I would change about Ahriman and I never figured out all the double crosses, betrayals, and the ending. There will be more and I can hardly wait to find out what happens next.

GOODREADS BLURB

“Like Grisham and Clancy… this title shines among the genre simply though superb storytelling.” -The US Review of Books

The Day of the Jackal meets Syriana in the near future.

When the CIA intercepts intelligence on a terrorist attack in Kuwait, Petra Shirazi, a former field agent, comes face to face with the Ahriman, one of Iran’s deadliest assassins.

It was the year when global economies continued to plummet despite analysts’ predictions of a turnaround.
It was the year when the Kuwaiti National Assembly consisted of the largest Islamic contingent in more than two decades.
It was the month when the price of oil plunged to twenty dollars a barrel.
It was the month when the Emir of Kuwait dissolved the National Assembly for the thirteenth time in fifteen years.
It was the day when the head of the Islamic majority of the Assembly hired an assassin and the CIA intercepted intelligence about a new wave of terrorist attacks.
It was the day that would change the face of the Middle East forever.

It was May 15, 2021.

After a disastrous mission forces her out of the field, Petra Shirazi retires from a life of espionage to work in a research position. Three years later, her division stumbles upon a money trail that reveals a massive new wave of terrorist attacks. The money trail places her in the midst of an assassination plot that implicates the highest levels of the Kuwaiti and Iranian governments. Petra will find herself face to face with the Ahriman, a man named for the Persian spirit of destruction who is responsible for a series of bomb blasts that paralyzed the Suez Canal two years earlier. As the investigation begins to unravel, the ripple effects threaten to engulf not only the Middle East and its Western allies, but also the darkest secrets of Petra’s past.

Genre: Fiction, Military, Political, Suspense, Thriller
Paperback
First published June 15, 2014

ABOUT PUJA GUHA

Puja Guha draws upon her experiences from traveling and living around the world in her writing. She has lived in Kuwait, Toronto, Paris, London, and several American cities including New York, Washington DC, and San Francisco. Each of these places and many more show up in her writing as her travel to places such as Mozambique, South Africa, Vietnam, Sudan, Afghanistan, and Guinea-Bissau inspire more and more story ideas. She also uses her experience working in international finance and development with the World Bank and Oliver Wyman to delve into global political themes in both her thrillers and literary fiction.

She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with work experience in finance and health care consulting, along with master’s degrees in public policy from London School of Economics and Sciences Po. She has published two books, international spy thriller AHRIMAN: THE SPIRIT OF DESTRUCTION and literary fiction piece THE CONFLUENCE.

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Giveaway – Once Upon A Charming Bookshop by Heatherly Bell @XpressoTours

Posted on November 28, 2023 by fundinmental

Once Upon a Charming Bookshop
Heatherly Bell
(Charming, Texas, #6)
Published by: Harlequin Special Edition
Publication date: November 28th 2023
Genres: Adult, Contemporary, Holiday, Romance

Time to rewrite their story?

He’d always simply been her best friend. But when Noah Cahill moved back to town, bookstore owner Twyla Thompson knew something was different. Was it holiday memories of the loss they’d both shared or Noah’s surprising decision to reignite a dangerous career? Their solid friendship had been through so much, yet now Twyla grew breathless every time Noah was near. Why wasn’t Noah—handsome, fun, but never one to cross the line—showing any signs of stopping?

From Harlequin Special Edition: Believe in love. Overcome obstacles. Find happiness.

Charming, Texas

Book 1: Winning Mr. Charming
Book 2: The Charming Checklist
Book 3: A Charming Christmas Arrangement
Book 4: A Charming Single Dad
Book 5: A Charming Doorstep Baby
Book 6: Once Upon a Charming Bookshop

Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / iBooks / Kobo

—

EXCERPT:

Then with little warning other than the sudden shine in his eyes, he hauled her by the neck to him and kissed her, square on the lips. It was a deep and long kiss that didn’t seem to have a beginning. Nor did it have an end. He pulled her tight and they were hip to hip, belly to belly. Even through the shock of the totally unexpected, she kissed him back. She sunk her fingers into his hair and kissed him with everything she had in her. With every last inch of longing wrapped up in her, saved over the years and packed away where the raw intensity of the emotion couldn’t destroy her.

She fisted his shirt. She ran her hands up and down his back, feeling the muscles tense and bunch.

It was over just as quickly and then they were both panting, staring at each other.

“I’m sorry.” Noah took a step back, leaving a healthy distance between them. “Yeah, I shouldn’t have done that. That’s wrong.”

Wrong?

“It’s okay,” she stammered because she didn’t know what else to say in the moment.

Yes, it was wonderful, please kiss me again, because I think maybe I’ve always loved you?

“It’s just…that was wrong of me. I don’t feel that way about you.”

Oh, God. There went her heart, pierced and sliced into tiny bits.

I don’t feel that way about you.

No, he was right. This was wrong. And if he had regrets then damn it, so did she.

“Me, neither. I don’t feel that way about you.”

“I know.”

The certainty in his voice broke her heart a little. How could he be so sure she wasn’t straight out lying, trying to save her pride?

She chewed on her lower lip. “So, let’s just forget it. Pretend the kiss never happened.”

“But…we’re okay?”

Worry and regret filled those dark puppy dog eyes. Not long ago, she would have understood. But now she knew what it was like to be kissed by Noah and her heart shattered to think it would never happen again.

“We’re okay. You’re probably right, huh? Bad idea.”

“Yeah, I just don’t want to…you know…” He ran a hand through his hair, looking desperately vulnerable, like a man searching for a lifeline.

And what kind of friend would she be not to throw one to him?

“It was just, well, okay, maybe we’re both lonely. And it’s after midnight. I…got um, confused.” She had no idea what she was saying but it sounded good, and he seemed to be receptive.

“Yeah, so did I.”

“And I’ve got a date tomorrow night so that could be awkward.”

Now she’d lied to her best friend, but she’d also kissed him within an inch of his life, so either way she was in brand new territory here.

He quirked a brow. “You have a date? Who is he?”

“Some guy.”

“Some guy? Does ‘some guy’ have a name?”

“Of course he has a name, Noah. He’s some guy I just met.” She crossed her arms. “Weren’t you leaving?”

He scowled. “Yeah. I have an early day tomorrow.”

“Bye.” She closed the door before he could say another word.

Now she was going to have to find herself a date.

Author Bio:

Bestselling author Heatherly Bell was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama but lost her accent by the time she was two. After leaving Alabama, Heatherly lived with her family in Puerto Rico and Maryland before being transplanted kicking and screaming to the California Bay Area. She now loves it here, she swears. Except the traffic.

Over 200,000 copies of Heatherly’s books have been sold, many of them translated into two languages.

Heatherly also writes sweet and wholesome books under the pen name of Maria Michaels. She is represented by Elaine Spencer of The Knight Agency.

Luke’s unwavering loyalty to Lexi and her family gives this sweet romance unexpected integrity …Readers looking for a tender romance that leans more toward the emotional than the physical will find this very satisfying.” ~ Publishers Weekly/Booklife review on Country Gold.

“Heatherly Bell writes romance that will capture your heart.” ~ Marina Adair, New York Times bestselling author.

“What a thoroughly delightful story. I adored it.” ~ Lori Wilde, New York Times bestselling author on Lucky Cowboy.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

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Giveaway – Felonious Finale by C S McDonald @ireadbooktours @CSMcDonald7

Posted on November 28, 2023 by fundinmental

Join us for this review tour from Nov 6 to Dec 8, 2023!

Book Details:

Book Title: A FELONIOUS FINALE (The Owl’s Nest Mysteries)
Author: C.S. McDonald
Category: Adult Fiction, 268 pages
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publisher: McWriter Books
Release date: April 2023
Tour dates: Nov 6 to Dec 8
Content Rating: G. C.S. McDonald’s books are appropriate for YA readers as well as adults–no bad language or sexual content.

Book Description:

Alexa Owl has one burning question: Who killed Bobby Starr?

Out of the blue that ornery angel, Detective Bobby Starr, shows up at The Owl’s Nest Couturier Shoppe. Much to Alexa Owl’s surprise, Bobby doesn’t need her help. Rather, he’s brought along someone else who wants to qualify for Saint Peter’s Guardian Angel Squad. Saint Pete has delegated this new inductee to solve a murder to get into the group, and it’s a doozie: Who killed Detective Bobby Starr? How can Alexa turn this assignment down?

Back in the 60s, Bobby’s fifth wife, Katherine was a diva in a community operetta company. During a performance of The Merry Widow, Bobby was forced to stand-in for a member of the chorus who fell ill. Only, Bobby’s first performance would be his last! The suspects are hitting all the notes as this mystery comes to crescendo!

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ Audible
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Giveway & Review – The Immortal Detective by D B Woodling @partnersincr1me @DBWoodling

Posted on November 27, 2023 by fundinmental

Beginning tomorrow, November 28th the ebook will only cost 99₵. Be sure to share this great deal … and grab yourself a copy before it ends on December 8th!

Amazon / Kindle Unlimited / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

The Immortal Detective by D B Woodling is the total package. At first it was the title that drew be into Celeste’s vampiric world, then I saw the amazing cover, then I read the blurb, and I loved every minute I spent there.

Celeste never would have chosen her undead life. Her mother, father, and brother, as well as her lover, Tristan were all vampires…and she hated them all. Because she is a decorated detective, her family petitioned the powers that be to imbue her with many of their gifts. With all the calamity in the world, she could fulfill a purpose. She would also be tasked with bringing those deserving into the fold, increasing their numbers. Their actions can, and will, change the world.

I love how they can morph into fantastical creatives, teleport, time travel, fly, read minds, implant suggestions, and so much more. It takes Celeste some time to get a handle on her powers, but the Elders will be there to assist her when necessary.

Celeste has an adopted daughter, Raina, and a flamboyant, gay vampire nanny, Fane, who live with her in her beloved Victorian home. Even baby vampires are children, frightened by nightmares…or premonitions. I became enamored with these characters and want more of them.

I love the dialogue between Raina and Fane…fun, fun, fun. He knows how to distract her from the bad, put a smile on her face, and entertain her while her mommy is fighting crime. I love that Celeste and Raina sleep together in the same coffer. Talk about cuddle time.

Celeste is a detective with the Kansas City Police. She will put her powers to the test as she endeavors to eliminate a sex trafficking ring. Lots of action. A choice will be made and I love it. The choice can definitely lead to another book in the series.

I missed reading the first book in the series, The Immortal Twin, and I feel I would have connected to the characters better if I knew their back story. Sometimes I forget to check and see if a book is part of a series and I wish I would have read the the books in order, but I can still recommend The Immortal Detective. I just recommend reading The Immortal Twin first.

ABOUT THE IMMORTAL DETECTIVE

Sometimes being immortal makes you wish you were dead.

Celeste Crenshaw has survived her parents’ grisly murders, grueling and gender-biased police training, a battle with rogue vampires, and even her own death. While immortality might seem a dream come true, can she accept the strings attached?

Celeste spends the start of her immortal life being mentored by the Elders of the Hollow Earth. They release her once they feel certain Celeste has honed her supernatural powers. But little do they know, Celeste isn’t wholly committed to granting eternal life to those deserving. Upon a return home to her immortal lover, and the Kansas City Detective Squad, she battles mortal foes, not so unlike the demonic undead. And when a fellow detective falls victim to a murderous gang member, Celeste faces a gut-wrenching decision and the possible wrath of the Elders.

Praise for The Immortal Detective:

“…impressive vampiric worldbuilding {with} a fascinating cast.”
~Publishers Weekly

“A new, original, fresh, fascinating and fun take on the Vampire genre. THE IMMORTAL DETECTIVE by D. B. Woodling is a “must read” pick for the legions of vampire fiction fans and an immediate and enduringly popular addition to community library Fantasy Fiction collections. Exceptionally well written…”
~Midwest Book Review

Book Details:

Genre: Paranormal, Detective Mystery, Fantasy Hybrid
Published by: CamCat Books
Publication Date: March 2023
Number of Pages: 336
ISBN: 9780744308013 (ISBN10: 0744308011)
Series: The Immortal Detective, 1
Book Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookShop.org | Goodreads | CamCat Books

ABOUT D B WOODLING

Acquiring an early appreciation of prose written by Edgar Allan Poe, Mary Shelley, and the audacious Stephen King, Woodling chose to follow in their intimidating footsteps, evidenced by The Immortal Twin (CamCat Books 2020) and The Immortal Detective, released by CamCat Books, March 2023. She recently completed a supernatural small-town murder mystery and has a Hollywood whodunit in the works, with Book Two of The Immortal Detective series vying for her attention. Woodling is a multi-genre author, and The Immortal Detective is her eighth novel.

Catch Up With D. B. Woodling:
www.DBWoodling.com
Goodreads
BookBub – @DBWoodling
Instagram – @DBWoodling
Twitter/X – @DBWoodling
Facebook – @DBWoodling
Pinterest – @DBWoodling

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Flabberghasted – A Road To Nowhere by Ted Galdi @TedGaldi

Posted on November 27, 2023 by fundinmental

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

A Road To Nowhere is a short story, 25 pages, by Ted Galdi, so there isn’t a lot I can say about it. I was reading along, thinking I knew what was going on. A guy picks up an abandoned girl, offering her a truck ride to town. It’s all about the ending, and it was a surprise! Ted Galdi got me and I loved that. I do have another book of his, and after being caught off guard in A Road To Nowhere, I am eager to see what he has to offer in Lion On Fire, a novella.

GOODREADS BLURB

Where nowhere is the only place to escape

An empty highway at midnight in Montana. A serial killer on the loose. An abandoned girl who desperately needs a ride. A man in a pickup truck offering to help. The surprising consequences of her getting inside.

Do you like quick reads?

Do you like hold-your-breath suspense?

Do you like shocking endings?

Then you’ll love A Road to Nowhere, the first short story by Ted Galdi, an Amazon #1 bestselling author who’s won Reader Views and Readers’ Favorite awards, and been featured by FOX, ABC, and iHeartRadio. He’s the author of the novels Elixir, An American Cage, and Lion on Fire, and the short stories Hazel Is Missing, Intrusion, and The Split.

Get your copy of this hit short story today and take a ride in a pickup truck so surprising you’ll be thinking about it for days.

Genre: Fiction, Suspense, Thriller
Format: 25 pages, Kindle Edition
Published: January 7, 2017 by Precipice Books

ABOUT TED GALDI

Ted Galdi, an Amazon #1 bestselling author, writes suspenseful, smart crime thrillers. His goal is to get your blood and brain pumping when you read his novels and short stories.

He’s been featured by Kirkus magazine, ABC, FOX, iHeartRadio, and many other media outlets. He’s a winner of a Reader Views Reviewers Choice Award and a Silver Medal in the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards. Ted is a graduate of Duke University.

To learn more about him and download a free bestselling crime thriller, visit his website at tedgaldi.com.

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Vampire Romance – Bloody Billionaire by Kay Widow @KayWidow @booksirens

Posted on November 26, 2023 by fundinmental

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I keep getting confused about all the Bloody Billionaire’s by Kay Widow, but I keep grabbing the books. They are quick reads, filled with vampires and romance. Right up my alley.

Quinn is the king and feels like he can do as he pleases, slaughtering humans left and right, leaving them for others to clean up. One of the problems, he eliminates their food supply and his inability to control his thirst could be his downfall.

In comes Tessa, his blood therapist, but she has an ulterior motive. She wants immortality for her and her sisters, and she must kill the king to get it. There is one problem….her attraction to the king.

The steamy sex scenes are smoking hot, even when its only in her head. The violence is graphic and gruesome.

Become a servant they said. It will be fun they said. And gods, they had no idea how fun it had become.

They fight their attraction for different reasons. Quinn because he cannot marry a commoner and Tessa because she must kill or be killed. I love the twist that Kay Widow throws into the mix and I wondered how she would do it. Do what, you ask? Well, if I told you, it would give too much away, so you’ll have t find out for yourself.

GOODREADS BLURB

“My blood has never burned like this before…”

Tessa knows her mission: Infiltrate the estate of vampire king Quinn Rodin and end his undead life.

This deal with the ruthless King Marr will grant her and her sisters immortality, but only if Tessa kills Quinn, Marr’s enemy.

As Quinn’s personal “bloodbag,” Tessa lives in the vampire’s mansion while spying on her target.

Yet when Quinn sinks his fangs into her flesh, Tessa discovers unexpected heat raging through her veins. His bite stirs a dangerous longing that clouds her judgment and threatens her task.

The vampire king’s allure captivates her, even as his unearthly powers put her life at risk.
And Tessa struggles between restoring her focus and indulging the enemy’s temptation.

Each night Quinn’s bite unravels her and carnal hunger replaces duty. But at what cost?

Her sisters are counting on her, and King Marr does not tolerate failure.

With immortality on the line, Tessa must master her thirst for Quinn’s embrace and regain her wits before his wicked bite destroys her from within.

Bloody Billionaire is a supernatural romantic thriller that will keep you turning pages until the breathtaking end. For fans of dangerous trysts, forbidden passions, and lethal creatures of the night.

ABOUT KAY WIDOW

Kay Widow is a paranormal romance author. She writes page-turning romances that readers consume faster than she can produce.
If you love spicy romances with protective and dominant alphas who fall for sassy curvy women, then you might just love Kay’s novels.
Kay lives in Kansas with her husband, Irish twins, and all her book boyfriends.

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram

MY KAY WIDOW REVIEWS

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Sherry’s Shelves 11.19 – 11.25.23 #weeklyupdate

Posted on November 26, 2023 by fundinmental

Sunday Post is hosted by Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Sunday Salon is hosted by Readerbuzz
Stacking The Shelves by Reading Reality
**images are linked to Amazon (I am an affiliate)**

Hi Everyone. This week has been about family, food and football.

Saturday was a good day in the Fundin household. Michigan beat Ohio State 30 – 24 and Alabama beat Auburn 27 – 24. Go Blue and Roll Tide. Michigan will play Iowa next week and Alabama will play Georgia. I think Michigan will now be #2…and it’s about time! Could we be #1? We shall see.

Hope everyone that celebrates enjoyed their Thanksgiving week.

LAST WEEK ON fundinmental