Today I’m pleased to be reviewing There Will Be Wrath by Steven A. McKay part of the wonderful Forest Lord short stories/novellas due for release tomorrow.
I’m a big fan of the main Forest Lord series as well as these linked shorts/novellas so super excited that I’ve been lucky enough to be able to read and share my thoughts with you prior to release!
I really look forward to these being released.. see what you thing of this…
Here’s the blurb
Yorkshire, England. Winter c.1330 When a group of Trinitarian friars appears in Wakefield’s market hawking miracle cures, local bailiff John Little doesn’t think much about it. Then an elderly man dies after using one of the healing salves, and the bailiff and his friend, Robert Stafford – better known as Friar Tuck – become suspicious. As Christmas approaches the weather worsens, but the friars continue selling their wares, moving around the north of England village by village, while John and Tuck’s fears grow as more rumours of unexpected deaths reach them. Could the healing salves and potions truly be deadly? With the evidence mounting, the pair resolve to look into the Trinitarians’ activities, not realising the terrible danger posed by the clergymen and their sinister followers… This new standalone tale sees the much-loved Forest Lord characters, including Will Scaflock and Robin Hood, reunite once again to investigate strange doings in snowy Yorkshire. Bringing medieval Britain vividly to life, just as Swords in the Snow, and Friar Tuck and the Christmas Devildid in previous years, action and adventure fans are sure to love the frosty yuletide mystery wrapped up in There Will Be Wrath!
Review
Robin, John, Tuck & Will are back with another little adventure. I’ve read all the books in the series so far so I thought I’d know what to expect but McKay still knows how to surprise the reader!
A group of Trinitarian friars are out selling their wares, salves and potions blessed by Minster Henry Bickner. While such items are meant to heal when a man dies the alarm bells start to ring… at first the men put this down to fate.. surely it’s just coincidence that he died after using one of the friars’ salves?
Things just don’t sit right, especially with Tuck.. so when visiting other villages and chatting to those they meet, and learn of similar deaths, the dread he feels grows.. no one has linked the deaths to the friars but Tuck is adamant there’s a connection.
It’s time to catch up with these friars… they can’t be aware of the danger surely? They need to be told of the dangers.
I don’t want to give the game away but things aren’t as they seem and it not only the villagers at risk.. Tuck and the others are in some danger themselves as they get closer to the truth…
There are twists along the way as the true nature of these items and the men selling them become clear.. the who’s and why’s really make this story stand out in the series.
What I loved is that the book feels like a bit of fresh air. I’m used to a mystery for the lads to figure out but this one gets back to a bit more of the nitty-gritty..It’s a bit clearer from the start, the “how” is known; it’s the “why” that makes this one such a great story.
The plot is wonderful and I felt as a reader I was able to focus on the story more and the characters motivations as I wasn’t trying to solve a mystery but damn those little twists and the action took me by surprise.
You really think it’s a clear cut story, but it’s not..there are some really clever moments that make you shout “No way!”
Fans will love this one and it continues the development of the characters we know and love. The ending leaves things open for future tales.. I feel a showdown coming in Robin’s future.. the excitement levels are high!
5/5 Stars!
I expect some good reviews to come in quick on this one so why not grab a copy tomorrow, it’s on Amazon & Kindle plus but do check out your preferred supplier or ask your local bookseller to grab you a paperback.. You won’t regret it.
Today I’m reviewing The Eagle and the Wolf by Gordon Doherty
Here’s the blurb
Flavius Aetius, a noble Roman son, is an outsider in a savage land. He has been banished, given as hostage to the barbaric Huns and sent to the edge of the world.
What the Huns do not know, however, is that his father and mother have been murdered in a coup. He is an orphan, with no value at all. His life hangs on a lie.
In this new harsh world, he manages to find one grudging ally, a young boy named Attila.
A brotherhood is formed. One that, the shamans foretell, will shatter the world.
Review
When I heard Gordon Doherty had a new book out, with Attila the Hun it was a no brainer.. I had to grab a copy.
I’ll admit my knowledge of Attila is lacking, there wasn’t any lessons at school and I wasn’t a big reader as I kid but what I did know is he was the most well known Hun but also how the warriors were renowned for their ferocity and skill.
I’m always keen to learn more, but what I love about the historical fiction genre, and Gordon’s work in particular, is that he breathes life into history. He shows how fascinating the past can be while making these historical figures feel real. He makes you care about what happened to them rather than simply reading facts. It’s a real talent to bring such historical figures to life.
The book starts strongly as we see the beginnings of Attila, a weak, blue-lipped baby saved by his gods, his fate already sealed: to be the one who unites the Huns, the ruler of all.
We then meet Flavius, a young Roman whose life is uprooted during Roman power struggles. He’s forced into a wagon, his family dead or lost in the chaos of battle, without knowing why or what fate has in store for him.
He’s been betrayed, and so has his family. Those opening scenes really set the tone as we see the lengths some people will go to for position and fortune.
Flavius keeps hope alive, but the further away he gets, the more he understands that his fate is seemingly sealed. Still, he refuses to give up.
He’s been taken by the Huns as a means of security. Rome needs the Huns and their warriors. The problem is that the Huns don’t know how little Flavius actually means to Rome, and he must keep this secret or his life could be forfeit before he finds a way home.
There’s a major language barrier between him and the Huns, and I loved how the author worked around this, with a few central characters bridging the gap between them. None more so than Munzuk. At first, Flavius sees only savagery in the Huns, but Munzuk enables him to see the people they truly are.
Flavius must now find a way to survive among the Huns. With the help of Munzuk and Attila, he thrives, and there’s also a growing love interest which plays a pivotal role in the story and in the development of both Flavius and Attila.
There are internal battles within the Hun community too, and it was fascinating to see both the differences and similarities between them and their Roman counterparts. Both Flavius and Attila play their part and earn the respect of their peers.
The time comes when Rome sees fit to visit the Huns, and this time it’s Attila who is uprooted and taken to Rome to play his own part in the political games.
The time apart sees both men grow, and you can sense the danger that’s coming. The visions Munzuk had begin to come to pass as the men reunite, but there’s a growing sense of unease. They are still brothers, bonded through shared experiences, but the differences between them continue to grow. A figure from Flavius’s past only adds to the tension.
The climax of the book doesn’t disappoint. Battles and gore, love and loss, and the threat of even more pain and destruction to come.
For me, the flow worked so well as both men grow and develop their own sense of purpose. I loved how this was perfectly balanced with historical detail: how the Huns were at one with their horses, why Rome needed their help, and the political climate of the time, the games played that allowed some men to get away with actions that should have seen them trodden underfoot.
Two characters stood out to me Bonifacius and Ruga.. for very different reasons.. one I hated with a passion and one I grew to love.. Read the book and tell me if you felt the same.
What I always really look forward to are the author’s historical notes. Not only do they provide extra insight, but they also showcase the level of detail and research the author puts into his work, ensuring historical accuracy where possible while explaining where he has taken creative licence.
The best news is knowing that Book 2, Shield of Rome, is due out next August. I can’t wait.
A cracking 5-star read from one of, if not the, best historical fiction authors writing today.The plot is so wonderful weaved, and the characters so perfectly written, invested from the first page to the last!
To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon, and do ask your local bookshop to get a copy in for you if they haven’t already 🙂
Today I’m reviewing Stamford Bridge 1066: A Viking Anthology!
Here’s the blurb
Thirteen writers. One battle. The same afternoon, told from both sides of the bridge.
Giles Kristian · Matthew Harffy · Angus Donald · Tim Hodkinson · Peter Gibbons · MJ Porter · Justin Hill · Theodore Brun · Eric Schumacher · Will Dowling · M. Thomas Kingsley · Mark Oxbrow · Åsli & Bakkejord
On 25 September 1066, a Norwegian army lay resting on both banks of the Derwent, seven miles from York. They had beaten one English army five days earlier and taken the city’s surrender, and the fighting was done. Most of them had left their mail at the ships.
They were not expecting Harold Godwinson.
The battle that followed ended the Viking age in England. Three weeks later it helped decide a second one, on a hill near Hastings, that everyone remembers instead.
A king who has spent his life outrunning the end of an age. A skald asked to praise a man he no longer believes in. A priest tends the wounded on the eve of a battle nobody knows is coming. A lone axeman on the bridge, and the Englishman in the water beneath him. Afterwards, a farmer walks the field looking for his son, and twenty years later an old earl sits in a Norman prison, still deciding what to tell his gaoler.
The man who holds the bridge in one story is watched from the water in another. Thirteen stories, one day.
Over 100,000 words of Viking historical fiction, published on the 960th anniversary of the battle
Review
1066 is a period well known in history, with numerous tales surrounding those fateful days. So, what makes this anthology so good?
First, the mix of authors is, quite frankly, amazing. Many are well known to me and my blog, while those new to me offer glimpses into their writing,teasing me and ensuringmy TBR list will continue to grow.
Each story is well formed around a specific event, and the flow between the stories is smooth. There are some overlaps, but the transition is effortless. What really makes it work, though, is the range of viewpoints portrayed.
What each author did so fantastically was bring these individuals to life: the men, the smells, the fear, the rush of adrenaline they felt and the extraordinary feats those in battle put themselves through. They just felt so real!
The whole anthology, for me, was one big ballad, with each author becoming a scop, regaling us with tales and earning our respect through their ability to keep readers utterly mesmerised. They ignite the flames of passion for history, not only for those who already love it but also for those new to the genre, adding the passion that I feel is sometimes missing when learning history at school.
What really shines is the narrative. The story unfolds from multiple perspectives and, for me, feels rather unique.
The pace and flow are sublime. It’s enthralling, and you can just tell how much effort has gone into making the transitions between stories so smooth. The excitement builds with the action, but the authors manage to infuse emotion throughout, meaning that, for me, this has been the best 1066-based story I’ve read to date.
I have to give a special mention to Justin Hill, The Bridge Keeper! No spoilers from me but the power oozed from the pages.
An earth-shattering 5/5 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
To find out more head to Goodreads, ask you local bookseller or grab a copy from Amazon!
Today I’m reviewing The Dying of the Light: With Time to Kill Book Two by Frank Ferrari!
Here’s the blurb
“Jamie McKinnon’s mum vanished on a Wednesday afternoon.”
How can you save somebody else if you can’t save yourself?
When widow and young mother Stephanie McKinnon’s disappearance in the Scottish Borders is escalated to the Major Investigations Team, it couldn’t have come at a worse time for DCI John Waters. Pulled into a complex case while dealing with his own torment, his inner demons threaten to consume him.
Garry Plumb, meanwhile, is building a life he never thought possible – a thriving company, a fiancée he adores, and a future that almost lets him forget what he is. But the beast inside hasn’t gone anywhere. It’s just waiting for a reason to come out – and it finds several.
Garry tells himself that each kill is righteous, but there’s no escaping that the voice talking him into it doesn’t sound like his own conscience. This voice is familiar, and monstrous.
Waters’ desperation to reunite the missing mother with her little boy grows and, knowing things nobody else does, he turns to Garry. The only question he needs to answer is: can Garry’s past save their future, or has he become the very thing he once destroyed?
Review
We are back with Garry Plumb. When we last saw Garry, he had just rid himself of Billy Blunt — who turned out to be the most vile, despicable person ever.
The only good thing about Billy is that he taught Garry how to travel back in time via a carrier, an organic mass. He can’t just travel to any time, though — that would be far too easy — but I love how the author has crafted the mechanics around it all. It’s fascinating.
The scene is set: a young woman has gone missing, and a young boy is left wondering where his mam could be. In walks DCI John Waters, who we’ve met before. From the off, I was hooked. Is Garry connected? Will he be? How? Why? So many questions start to form immediately.
Garry has put right the wrongs of his past, and he’s now a happy man with everything he could want — but that peace is about to be shattered.
Here’s where the story becomes quite clever. There are multiple threads running at once, all of which connect beautifully in the end. We quickly learn Garry’s fiancée is struggling, Garry himself has a small problem at work, and the DCI has his own demons — and that’s without the missing woman on top of it all.
Their lives intertwine, never overshadowing one another or feeling out of place, but instead keeping you effortlessly on tenterhooks.
When we reach the hard‑hitting and gruesome disappearance, we see DCI Waters shattered and lost… and that’s when things click. I won’t spoil it, but there is a way for Garry to help — to help everyone — but in order to fix things, the beast inside him needs to resurface.
I never truly think Garry is evil; rather, he’s a man forced to confront a situation no one else ever could. What would we do if we had the chance to remove obstacles in our past? Remove those who hurt us — or those who will hurt us and others? It’s a morally grey area, and Garry continues to battle with it. But his secret might be the key to saving a woman’s life — and helping DCI Waters too.
Plot‑wise, it’s spot on. There are multiple directions for the story to travel, and the pace flows superbly. You can really tell the author has planned it all — the detail is astounding.
Development‑wise, Garry grows, and so do other characters like DCI Waters. It was great to see them battle their biggest foes: themselves. I also loved how the author humanised the police, showing the connections the team investigating the disappearance have with each other — the friendship, the respect.
Oh, and it would be remiss of me not to mention that ending. The twists. Oh my bloody god, that was good. I do wonder if it was the author’s plan all along or if it came to fruition naturally as the story flowed. Either way, it was shockingly good.
5/5 Stars
To find out more why not head to the authors website, Goodreads or ask any good bookshop to get you a copy!
Today I’m reviewing the audiobook version of 1914 by Griff Hosker, narrated by Malk Williams
Here’s the blurb
In the air, we find freedom. In the summer of 1914, the world stands on the brink of chaos, and for young William Harsker, life is about to change forever. Drawn to the pride of the cavalry and the allure of glory, William trades the freshness of English fields for the muddy trenches of Flanders. But nothing can prepare him for the brutal reality of cavalry charges against merciless machine guns, where valour and death dance intimately on the battlefield.
As the war escalates, William’s fierce spirit leads him to the Royal Flying Corps, a daring shift that takes him to the skies above the carnage. In the cockpit, he transforms from an observer and gunner to a pilot, discovering an unyielding passion for aerial combat that tests his bravery in ways he never imagined. Through breathtaking dogfights and narrow escapes, William grapples with the contrast of his once-simple life back home and the dark, consuming world of war that has engulfed him.
1914 is a poignant exploration of courage, brotherhood, and the indomitable human spirit. As William faces the stark realities of loyalty, sacrifice and the abrupt loss of innocence, listeners will be drawn into a whirlwind of emotions that resonate long after the final tick. Join William on his journey; feel the thrill of flight, the weight of dread, and the bittersweet nature of heroism as the world he once knew fades into the shadows of history.
The gripping first instalment of Griff Hosker’s acclaimed seven-part British Ace series. A must-listen for fans of Ben Kane, Bernard Cornwell, Simon Scarrow and Anthony Riches. Prepare for battle – this is just the beginning.
Review
We meet Bill Harsker in the run up to World War I. We learn about his family, the estate they live on and the worry they start to feel as rumbles of war reach them.
It’s a stressful time for all and the tranquillity of their lives are shattered.
Bill heads to war along with many other brave souls, some never to return.
He has to learn fast, build relationships and find his place in the unit… but is he ready for the brutality of the cavalry unit? How can a horse compete against a machine gun?
The action is bloody, brutal and heart pounding. I’m big enough to admit a couple deaths hit hard and had me shed a tear..The saddest thing is how quickly the story moves on, mirroring life, we don’t get given time to grieve… and just when you think things are calming down.. bang.. more death and destruction..
As the war escalates its inevitable that Bill can’t come out the other end unscathed.. the respite allows him to travel home where we again see the stresses of those left behind.. those who’ve lost loved ones, those who wish to fight but can’t, and those just living day to day in the hope the war will end.
The break allows Bill to refocus.. he loves the cavalry but when the opportunity arises to join the Royal Flying Corps it’s a chance he can’t turn down.
The action again moves quick as Bill shows how natural it is for him to fly, but to also lead.
I particularly enjoyed seeing Bill need to deal with clashing personalities and goals.. no one needs a glory hunter in the air if it means others getting hurt.
Plot wise I loved it. It moves super quick but for me felt natural..just like Bill would have been, we are in the dark about the war, only the powers that be know their plans and that just plays into the pace perfectly as the objectives change and things heat up.
Character wise the development was spot on. I felt connections with some, others leave us too soon but that plays into the scenario.. not every one can make it out alive but even those deaths play a part to develop that characters meaning and enhance Bill’s journey.
I noted from the synopsis the word “bittersweet” is used and I couldn’t agree more. There’s a lot to Bill that makes you smile, the playful moments when he notices he’s forgot to write home when he made a promise to do so for example..and then the sadness hits as to how his family must be worrying.. but then hits harder when you know some families would be waiting for letters that will never be written.
I wish we had more time but war waits for no man.
A great intro to a series and I must admit the narration by Malk Williams was beautiful, The tone and pace blended perfect with the urgency of war.
The book is a perfect depiction of sorrow and hope.. and with more books in the series to crack on with I’m a happy man!
5/5 stars
To find out more head to Goodreads or head to the authors website, word of warning.. Griff seems to be prolific so best warn your bank now ha.
Today I’m reviewing A Kingdom For The Taking, book 2 in The Sword Song Chronicles by Steven A. McKay!
Here’s the blurb
Following their daring escape from Herakas, the former Galnir warrior, Wulfnoth, and his loyal companions decide they must split into two less conspicuous groups in order to evade capture and pursue different, but equally vital, goals. While one party will visit the libraries of Nemea and seek to unlock the power held within the gemstone carried by Wulfnoth, the other heads for the capital city, Taenarum, where Wulfnoth’s parents have been imprisoned for the past decade by the tyrant, Lysandros, and his evil sorcerer, Nicander. As well as the enemy soldiers tracking Wulfnoth, Greybeard, Chrysanthe, and the other friends, an even more monstrous enemy is hot on their trail. Captain Kallias was always a brutal, sadistic warrior, but now, with senses and physical traits enhanced by dark magic, he is the ultimate hunter with one mission: to kill Wulfnoth and bring the young warrior’s head to King Lysandros. All is not well within Lysandros’s Nemea however, as decades of unrest have led to violent opposition amongst the common folk who see their taxes rising every year while their children are cut down in droves, sacrificed to the merciless, grinding war machine. As Wulfnoth and his companions seek to fulfil their missions the backdrop of political unrest could prove useful, but with murderous enemies, shocking betrayals, misunderstood ancient technology, and savage monsters to contend with, their quests seem doomed to failure.
Review
We ae back with Wulfnoth after his escape from Herakas. After being beaten down by the Galnir army, his escape and the revelations from his past… his parents are alive and imprisoned!
He will do anything to free them but enemies are everywhere!
It’s lucky that Wulfnoth has made some friends along the way to help in in his journey..Greybeard and Chrysanthe along with soldiers Ardgal, Muirren and the mage Timon!
They are being hunted and soon realise they need to split up to keep their enemies at bay.
The issue soon becomes clear that they aren’t just being hunted by a normal solider…Captain Kallias is a brutal warrior.. And Greybeard senses quickly why this man is so dangerous…
Plot wise i thought it was a great move to split the group up, not only does it give more options of where the story can go but also allows the characters the chance to develop and not be overshadowed by each other or the main story.
Splitting the group also allowed for a greater flow of the tale, you never get bored as the focus changes from chapter to chapter.. This just makes you devour the tale!
I also particularly liked the parallels with the first novel, the mythical creatures and how it links to King Lysandros and his mage Nicander, those responsible for Wulfnoth’s parents imprisonment.
What I really loved is that you can see the authors growth as they move to a new genre but at the same time the writing feels so familiar.. it’s the style and flow, the relationships and character growth.. it makes fans of the author feel at home instantly.
There’s battles, magic, love and grief.. and twists and turns meaning that ending packs a gut punch..No spoilers but it’s not the ending Wulfnoth would have liked but leaves so much promise for more to come.
The best addition character wise for me was Korax, again no spoilers, there’s development but not so much that you’ve got him worked out..I’m very interested in what happens next.
I’m left breathless.. needing to know where this will go next..
5/5 Stars!
To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon! (or ask any local bookseller to get a copy in for you, you’ll not regret it!)
Today I’m on the blog tour for Orbital Drop by Steve J McHugh
Here’s the blurb.
As a member of the Wardens, Celine Moro is tasked with protecting the Union Empire from those who seek to harm it. The civil war that engulfed the empire has been over for decades, but when she’s asked to infiltrate and capture a criminal who was once an enemy to the Union, she soon finds herself dragging up old memories of those she’d lost during the war. As the mission continues, Celine has to decide if she wants vengeance for those who have long since been dead, or justice for those still alive.
Review
I’ve delved into the authors imagination before so was very happy to pick up Orbital Drop knowing I could immerse myself back into the world Steve J. McHugh has created.
We follow Celine, A Warden. we’ve met Celine before, so I just knew I was going to enjoy this one!
The plot is fast paced and exciting from the off. When we first see Celine, she’s hunting a man who planned to kidnap a Union Councillor’s daughter.
Things spiral though as we quickly learn he was just the puppet, not the puppet master. Who is and why did this want to kidnap this particular person?
As we go deeper in things seem to link back to an ex-Union member Ralan, turned traitor and now leader of black-market underworld on a planet you can’t visit.. for many they don’t exist.. things just feel off though the more we learn.
I won’t spoil it but let’s just say there is some lovely twists and turns as Celine arrives on the plant to capture Ralan and like Celine you are on your guard throughout just waiting for the truth to come out.
Looking at the characters, I really enjoyed the mix, Gigi was my favourite. A syth with personality ha ha. Mal and Sime, both bring something to the tale, Mal is mysterious in their motives and Sime brings a historic connection to Celine, but can either be trusted? Kranis, Gallo and Amressa bring dry humour and camaraderie to the tale and it was great to see how these characters played off one another!
Given it’s such a fast paced novel I was surprised just how much detail was crammed in, locations, and in particular creatures. The use of a Sage and their ability to sense animals/humans was particularly interesting. I also loved the back story to explain how the planet Vanestra came to be as it is, a planet with a huge scar down it, two massive ships being salvaged for parts and how given time.. will cease to exist
For fans of the author it hits all the notes you’d expect and for new readers I’d say this is the perfect intro into the authors mind, the words flow easily, no plot holes, characters have meaning.. It just ticks all the boxes for me.
Overall I loved Orbital Drop, I think it showcases the authors talents but also leaves the door open for more.. and that’s what’s exciting for me..In the world the author has created there’s so much potential!
Easy 5*
I like to keep my ratings simple, If I love a book and wouldn’t change a thing about it then it’s a 5* and the plot along smashed that.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!
Why not follow the tour?
✨ Meet Your Next Favourite Author: Steve J. McHugh ✨
Steve is a bestselling author of Urban Fantasy and Science Fiction books. His novel, Scorched Shadows, was shortlisted for a Gemmell Award for best novel. He was born in Mexborough, South Yorkshire, but now lives with his wife and three young daughters in Southampton.
Today I;m taking part in the blog tour for Case Files: Collected Short Crime Stories Vol. 1 by Rachel Amphlett.
Here’s the blurb
Discover nine dark and twisted mysteries from bestselling author Rachel Amphlett in this second collection of disturbing short stories.
This second page-turning collection features The Date, in which Lucy and Michael meet every year for a sinister anniversary; in All Night Long Zoe soon wishes she wasn’t working the late shift; and in A Burning Question a young Detective Kay Hunter suspects a serial arsonist is targeting a small community of river dwellers with chilling results…
Case Files: Collected Short Crime Stories Volume 2:
The Date
The Back Nine
The Protégé
Devil of a Favor
Six Underground
Three Ways to Die
A Toxic Remedy
All Night Long
A Burning Question
Case Files: short crime fiction stories that will have you on the edge of your seat.
Review
I recently finished reading volume one in the series so jumped at the chance to read the second!
The author nicely keeps the format from the previous volume, some stories a longer than others but each have a dark/gritty undertone with twists to really engage the reader
To give you an idea of what’s in-store for you lucky readers I’ll let you know my favorite two stories!
Three ways to die – Xander has a chance to prove he’s still capable.. still able of pulling of a job..his job you ask? Well let’s just say he takes out the trash.. but this trash just so happens to be an FBI agent and lady luck is not on Xander’s side!
A burning question – One of the books longer tales where we see Detective Kay Hunter search for an arsonist.. will there be another target? what’s the reasoning behind the crimes? who is at danger? A very clever. gritty tale.
I don’t want to give too much away but I really enjoyed the quick, sharp details, the dark undertone which just sets the aymosphere prefectly.
There’s lots to enjoy too, while there’s the dark crime theme each story is different so you are constantly aroused, your attention piqued.
It’s a lovely quick read, flows just perfect so you don’t get bogged down.
Another cracking collection!
4/5 Stars.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!
Why not follow the tour?
✨ Meet Your Next Favourite Author: Rachel Amphlett✨
Before turning to writing, USA Today bestselling crime author Rachel Amphlett played guitar in bands, worked as a TV and film extra, dabbled in radio, and worked in publishing as an editorial assistant.
She now wields a pen instead of a plectrum and writes crime fiction with over 30 crime novels and short stories featuring spies, detectives, vigilantes, and assassins.
A keen traveller and accidental private investigator, Rachel has both Australian and British citizenship.
Today I;m taking part in the blog tour for Case Files: Collected Short Crime Stories Vol. 1 by Rachel Amphlett.
Here’s the blurb
This page-turning collection features The Man Cave, in which Darren regains consciousness in a dank basement where escape turns out to be the least of his worries; in The Last Super Larry has a dark confession to make; and in Nowhere to Run a rookie detective encounters her first serial killer… but will she survive?
Case Files Short Crime Stories Volume 1:
The Reckoning A Grave Mistake The Beachcomber The Man Cave A Dirty Business The Last Super Something in the Air Special Delivery A Pain in the Neck The Last Days of Tony MacBride The Moment Before Nowhere to Run
Review
I was after something a little different.. something to keep me hooked in this warm weather we’ve been having and Case Files: Collected Short Crime Stories Vol. 1 certainly fits the bill!
Author Rachel Amphlett has brought togehter a seres of short stories that efforetlessly hook the reader in. From the first offering I was gripped by the clever plot given a limited word count.
Some stories are longer than others but each fit nicely as one volume and the stories are fun. That might sound a silly thing to say but they are, superbly intriguing and keep you on your toes as you have no idea what’s coming next. The flow is just spot on so I just found myself devouring it and needing to continue onto the next story.
I feel not only does this book showcase the authors talent but also shines as a good example of what a short story should be.. it needs to hook you, needs to give the reader everything they expect from a book but in much shorter time frame.. you need to be short and sharp to save that word count but also give enough that the flow develops naturally.
It’s always difficult for me to review short tales without giving too much away, and you also don’t have enough time to really grow connections with the chracters but what the author manages to do with ease is deliver focused stories, with compelling and at times emotional plots.. each delivers a dark punch and I for one very much enjoyed it!
All the stories have a cunning twist, something exciting you just don’t see coming.
4/5 Stars.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!
Why not follow the tour?
✨ Meet Your Next Favourite Author: Rachel Amphlett✨
Before turning to writing, USA Today bestselling crime author Rachel Amphlett played guitar in bands, worked as a TV and film extra, dabbled in radio, and worked in publishing as an editorial assistant.
She now wields a pen instead of a plectrum and writes crime fiction with over 30 crime novels and short stories featuring spies, detectives, vigilantes, and assassins.
A keen traveller and accidental private investigator, Rachel has both Australian and British citizenship.
Today I’m very happy to be taking part in the blog tour for Heroica! the latest book the the Roma Nova series by the wonderful Alison Morton!
It’s a double treat as not only do you get to know my thoughts but you can read an excerpt from the book too!
Here’s the blurg
Even the strongest state is vulnerable to its past.
2020, Roma Nova. Carina Mitela investigates a potential rebellion but discovers the long-buried secret that ignited the attempted uprising links directly to her own powerful family.
1683, Vienna. As Europe struggles against the Ottoman onslaught, Honoria Mitela leads her troops into the desperate battle to save besieged Vienna. The fate of Europe – and of Roma Nova itself – hangs in the balance.
1849, Central Italy. Statia Mitela’s impulsive act saves one life but jeopardises Roma Nova’s very existence and threatens her descendants with public disgrace, financial ruin and permanent exile.
Three stories of the women of the Mitela family, descendants of the founders of Roma Nova, bound by blood and courage.
Time for a little sneak peak before I share my thoughts
Excerpt from The Idealist, a story in the HEROICA collection
Outskirts of Rome, Italy, 2nd July 1849
‘Mercury be thanked,’ Statia rasped when she saw the ancient milestone ‘Roma VI’. And these would be six good Roman miles. She swallowed hard, which made her dry throat worse. Despite the broad-brimmed riding hats the four of them wore, the brutal heat of the early July sun beat down, exhausting them all. Statia reined in her mount under the shade of one of the occasional clumps of pines and patted his shoulder almost absent-mindedly. The poor horse, a hired animal, was as weary as she was. And as dusty from the road. If only the following generations had maintained the Via Valeria as it had been in the Ancients’ time, it would have been a smoother journey.
‘Domina?’ Her leading companion drew up beside her.
‘I need a drink, Ranius,’ she said and swivelled round in her saddle. The other two riders were only a few paces behind. ‘And so do the animals.’
‘The Anio below us would be best and we can rest by the bank,’ he replied.
They picked their way down to the river where Ranius supervised the two servants in watering the horses. After a few moments, he left them to it and sat by Statia on the wool rug she had pulled from her saddle pack.
‘Yes,’ she said as he stared at it. ‘I know. Well and good for the mountains we’ve come through from the Adriatic, but inappropriate for Rome in June. But even though we’re incognito, I don’t want to enter Rome with grass stains or mud on my breeches’ arse.’
Ranius laughed. The first time, Statia noted, since they’d left Roma Nova eleven days ago under the cover of darkness. She hadn’t known what a terrible sailor he was until they’d slipped out of Pula in Istria on the merchant ship. He’d kept a pale, grim, nearly green face until they’d landed safely at Aternum, or Pescara as the Italians called it now. A former Praetorian centurion, he was used to travelling fast through mountains on ramshackle cold trails. These days, he guarded her home, the Domus Mitelarum, but more than that, he gave her, informally, wise counsel almost as a father would. He’d tried to stop her mission, calling it demented, but had given in with a grunt when she said she would go with or without him. Now they were near Rome, Statia was starting to have her doubts. Perhaps she should have stayed on the farm at Castra Lucilla where she knew what she was doing.
No, she must go on, whatever the cost. She had promised and that was an end on it. She knew the consequences could be harsh, but she was sure the imperatrix would see the justice of it. Well, Statia hoped she would. Constantia Apulia’s disinclination to help the new Roman Republic created by the people of Rome themselves played on Statia’s mind. While the imperatrix and her council supported the overthrow of the bishop of Rome’s rule, they preferred to remain neutral until matters clarified. Now, unfortunately, they had.
Consulted in strictest confidence, Councillor Branca, the imperatrix’s chief advisor, had pursed her lips.
‘This self-imposed mission is beyond reckless, Statia. It cannot end well.’
‘I must save this man. He is Italy’s future. As Romans ourselves we should be supporting him.’
‘He’s a dangerous revolutionary intent on bringing in a republic.’
‘And the Gracchi, Scipio Africanus, Fabius and Cincinnatus weren’t true republicans in ancient times?’
‘You are foolish, Statia, and foolhardy. But like all the Mitelae, you are made in the heroic mould, I admit. If you insist on going ahead, you must carry it out in the utmost secrecy. If you succeed, then well and good.’
Statia had paused and tried to read Branca’s expression. Despite their friendship since childhood, a running dispute over land near the Mitela estate at Castra Lucilla had soured the relationship between them. Branca desperately wanted back the spelt fields that had been sold by her ancestor to Mitela in the fifteenth century. However, despite their bickering they’d kept on civilised terms.
Statia had felt obliged to consult Branca as she was the imperatrix’s closest advisor and one used to exerting power and influence. Had that been the wisest course of action? But Branca was a Roman from one of the original Twelve Families, and a public servant of proven loyalty. Statia was sure the councillor would act honourably and support her if there were repercussions.
As the two servants, Bellania and Tetrio, brought the horses back to the bank, Statia let out a deep sigh. If anything did happen to her, her daughter Leonia, now eighteen, would be safe and secure and was perfectly capable of leading the Mitela family into the future.
Review
We are back in the wonderful Roma Nova world, Rome never fell and flourishes at the hands of powerful families, and in particular powerful women.. but that doesnt mean they don’t have their own problems to solve.. it’s not all easy sailing.
Firstly I’m always amazed how the author manages to keep the series fresh and interesting.. the longevity of this series should be celebrated, credit where it’s due the author keeps things fresh, plays with the format and flow of the tales so there;s never a dull moment.. you could pick up at this stage and enjoy the book no problem but each book just enriches the series.
The flow and format of this offering really wet the taste buds, three stories about courageous Roma Novan women as they face down the threats that could lead to the end of Roma Nova!
I have a real soft spot for Carina Mitela and I know I’m not the only one, so imagine how pleased I was when she pops up in the first story!
Oh and what a story it is as Carina investigates a potential rebellion that has much deeper ramifications.. . Paced perfectly and hooked instantly.. plenty of time for Carina to shine. I hate to say it but this was certainly my favourite.. it’s not just Carina but the plot, it plays with the readers mind.. and if I’m honest mirrors my worries of events we witness today..who really is pulling the strings? does power mean untouchable? or is there more to it? Morton never disappoints and keeps me engrossed!
Time shifts and we are now with Honoria Mitela as she leads her troops into the desperate battle to save besieged Vienna, for me the gritter, darker of the three tales. Honoria is very likable and you warm to her instantly as she navigates religious tensions.
As time shifts again we now with Statia Mitela as an impulsive act ends up risking not only the family name but Roma Nova itself. Each story is unique but together they make something greater, stronger together..but this one screams grit and determination.
I couldn’t be happier that that this series seems to go from strength to strength.. each offering complements the series.. builds on the established roots and continues to see the Roma Nova world grow.
The real reason I love this series.. Roma Nova isn’t just one person but Morton shows you the damage one person can make, but also that one person is all it may take to right those wrongs… the importance of family.. fighting to keep the world on the right track… to keep going.. and that history matters.. learn from mistakes and support/challenge those in power and we can see live thrive.
5/5 Stars
My thanks to the author for having me on the tour, while I received a ARC of the book this in no way influenced my review.. I bought my own copy on release, I love this series.. the ARC just allowed me to start my journey back to Roma Nova sooner!
Alison Morton writes award-winning thrillers featuring tough but compassionate heroines. Her twelve-book Roma Nova series is set in an imaginary European country where a remnant of the Roman Empire has survived into the 21st century and is ruled by women who face conspiracy, revolution and heartache but use a sharp line in dialogue.
She blends her fascination for Ancient Rome with six years’ military service and a life of reading crime, historical and thriller fiction. On the way, she collected a BA in modern languages and an MA in history.
Alison lives in Poitou in France, the home of Mélisende, the heroine of her three contemporary thrillers, Double Identity, Double Pursuit and Double Stakes.
For the latest news, subscribe to her newsletter at https://www.alison-morton.com/newsletter/ and receive ‘Welcome to Alison Morton’s Thriller Worlds’ as a thank you gift.
