Category Archives: Blog Tours

BLOG TOUR – Shield of Mercia by MJ Porter

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for Shield of Mercia by MJ Porter!

Here’s the blurb.

Mercia is triumphant. Her king is safe. But Wessex was never Mercia’s only enemy.
Tamworth, AD836

Following a brutally cold winter, King Wiglaf of Mercia is in the ascendancy. Even Wessex’s Archbishop of Canterbury extraordinarily ventures to Mercia to broker a religious accord. But, can the hard-won peace prevail?

Viking raiders threaten Wessex. These blood-thirsty warriors are fast, skilful and have no reticence about killing those who stand in their way. Their aim isn’t to rule but to overwhelm, slaughter and take ill-gotten wealth.

King Wiglaf is no fool. As the Vikings push to overwhelm Wessex, Mercia’s lands look insecure. King Wiglaf needs the shields of Mercia’s warriors to prevent the overwhelming advancement of their deadliest enemy yet.

To save Mercia, Icel must first prevail over the two men who mean to end his life; King Ecgberht of Wessex and his son, Æthelwulf of Kent and only then the marauding Viking army for whom boundaries have no meaning.

An action packed, thrilling historical adventure perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy.

Review

We are back with Icel for the latest instalment in the The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles series!

Boy it’s been some journey.. but Icel cant rest yet. There’s still a lot of bad blood and political tension following invents of the last book.. is that threat gone forever… hmmmm.

There’ still the shadow hanging over him.. the truth of who he really is and what that could mean for Mercia… but Icel just wants to be a warrior…

There’s not much time to contemplate this though as a Viking army needs to be contended with. The country may be divided but can the King’s put differences aside to battle their common foe? .

Icel has barely had time to recover too, he’s been through so much already, but there’s little time to heal, both mentally and physically as it’s time for Icel to serve his King once again, to stop the advancing threat.

What I really enjoyed was the balance, the build up of political tension..showing sometimes battles are done with words, subtle movements putting the pieces om the boardgame for the perfect setup…only to have the reader then smashed from their feet with the battle and gore.. I mean sometimes the only answer is a bloody sword!

Development wise I loved that we had the addition of new characters such as Aldhelm, but also revisit some firm favourites in Cuthred and Wynflaed..

The first chapter for me was a beautiful piece of writing, not only did it set the scene.. set the tension and fear for the remainder of the novel it also reminded followers of the series of previous events.. even the mention of the name Wine takes me back to the first novel and the death of Icel’s uncle…that’s the power the authors words hold..the reader really is mesmerised and transported to another life.

Wynflaed is older now and for me the fear I have for her was mirrored in the fear of the Viking threat, the tension she builds so eloquently with her words mirrored the tension between the Kings of the land..

The tension just builds and the pace is superb.. as the battles and blood flow the pace increases and you find yourself hungry for more and more.. I devoured those last few chapters as you are just left with no choice but to keep reading! Wowza.

MJ Porter shows us why they are one of the best in the genre! Shield of Mercia is rich in detail, rich in development and rich in gore… what more could you want from an MJ Porter novel?

I’m always amazed looking back to how much happens in each novel.. and Shield of Mercia doesn’t disappoint. I never feel safe… who will survive.. where will the next battle come from.. who can be trusted… you are kept on the edge of your seat!

You could jump into the series now if you wanted as the author provides enough detail for new readers to understand the flow and motivations but for me it’s a series to enjoy from the beginning to really feel that development… it’s just that good you need to read it from yourself!

Easy 5*

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?


Purchase Link –
https://mybook.to/ShieldofMercia

Author Bio –

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. Raised in the shadow of a building that was believed to house the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia, meant that the author’s writing destiny was set.

Social Media Links

Facebook: @MJPorterauthor

Twitter: @coloursofunison

Instagram: @m_j_porter

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MJPorterNews

Bookbub profile: @coloursofunison

BLOG TOUR – Eagle and the Flame and Adam Lofthouse

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Today is my spot on the blog tour for Eagle and the Flame and Adam Lofthouse!

Here’s the blurb

Rebellion is in the air at the far reaches of empire.

Wall of Hadrian, Britannia, AD 367. Tribune Sixtus Victorinus is scouting north of the Wall when he first sees the smoke. Riding south he finds a province in chaos, the local populace in flight, the soldiers absent.

Britannia is ablaze, overrun with barbarians and Valentia is the word on everyone’s lips. But no one seems to have the first clue what it means…

Victorinus may have let his life run to ruin and drunk his youth away, but now he must forge himself into the soldier he always wanted to be, the hero his children think he is.

Because his family are among the missing, and traitors lurk much closer than he could ever believe.

To save his family, he must first save an empire.

EAGLE AND THE FLAME will sweep you through the tumultuous years of the late Roman Empire.

Review

So for fans of the author, or keen followers of my blog you’ll know doubt recognise the author and perhaps a bit of the blurb.. Lofthouse was picked up by the awesome Boldwood Books and his previous works have undergone a light edit and rename. Eagle and the Flame was previously published as Valentia, being familiar with the novel you really could see how this little edit has made the writing a little sharper.. more refined.. I mean it was perfect anyway but seriously you can see how the author is honing his craft and that can only be good for us with hopefully plenty more books to come!

Down to the nitty gritty of the plot.. Victorinus and his men are outcasts of a sought.. the dregs of the army, drunks and those who cannot be tamed.. but good men worth keeping around.. even at a distance.

When rebellion reaches the empire and the name Valentia is seen across the land, Victorinus and his small band set out to see what can be done and head to see his friend Felicius. Felicuis and Victorinus have known each other for years.. Although very different people they hold some of the same qualities so you can see why they are friends.. if only Victorinus could overcome his demons!

The book starts strong and the plot moves with perfect speed building the pressure as Victorinus and Felicuis spit up with the same aim.. find out who is behind this and to put a stop to the madness.

We soon find out a number of Roman forts have been abandoned… but there’s no bodies left behind..and there are multiple enemies reported all over the land..who would have the power and money to make this happen or is it all one big coincidence? And what or who is Valentia…Can Victorinus trust everything he’s being told?

We see many battles along the way, death & pain & treachery .. on land as well as at sea and the detail given was brilliant, so much packed in but with that pinch of development needed to grip you and bring the characters to life along the way, which Lofthouse manged to do effortlessly!

Hard hitting and commanding plot with character development that just keeps coming!

Adam Lofthouse is one to watch.. he’s shown how good his storytelling is..things are only going from strength to strength so I eagerly await his next offering!!

5/5 stars

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?


Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/EagleandtheFlame

Author Bio –

Adam has for many years held a passion for the ancient world. As a teenager he picked up Gates of Rome by Conn Iggulden, and has been obsessed with all things Rome ever since. After ten years of immersing himself in stories of the Roman world, he decided to have a go at writing one for himself. He lives in Kent, UK.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: @AdamPLofthouse

Twitter: @AdamPLofthouse

Instagram: @adamplofthouse

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/AdamLofthouseNews

Bookbub profile: @AdamLofthouse

BLOG TOUR – Empire of Hanging Swords by R.R. Egal

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Empire of Hanging Swords by R.R. Egal!

Here’s the blurb.

An empire on the brink.

An unimaginable betrayal.

And one girl who has to hold it all together.

Empress Neferet is no stranger to the weight of a crown nor the responsibility that comes with it. Secretly, she hunts her beloved father’s murderer, seeking justice for his brutal death as unprecedented natural disasters are spreading fast across her lands.

Once she discovers the assassin was none other than her closest ally, the Dominus of Theron, fury drives her to cross the borders of his kingdom to seek revenge with the blessing of the gods. However, once Neferet crosses paths with Dante, the Dominus’s son, they uncover a conspiracy that shakes her deepest convictions and suggests that the disasters ravaging her empire weren’t so natural after all.

As more gods descend with cryptic and conflicting messages, Neferet’s faith is thrown into turmoil and she finds herself with more questions than answers. War looms on the horizon, so she and Dante must piece together the conspirators’ plans—and the gods’ true intentions—to stop them before her empire collapses.

Review

Empire of Hanging Swords follows follows Neferet, the Empress of the Etalan Empire and Dante, son of the Dominus of Theron. There’s tension from the outset, their countries are allies but Neferet has reason to believe someone has betrayed her and the Etalan Empire, her father was murdered, was it really their allies behind this?

We now meet Dante, the Dominus’s son.. tension is thick but soon a deeper conspiracy is discovered, it wasn’t just one murder.. there’s more planned and the Dominus is next!

It’s time for the two to put the their differences behind them and work together to save the Dominus..

As the story progresses you can see the tension between the two start to change.. it’s gradual and paced well but when they finally realise their feelings for each other it wasn’t a shock.. if anything you are rooting for them, and relieved for them. I’m not a big fan of romance in stories.. I’m always worried it will take focus away from the main plot of the story but I need not have worried as plenty of time is given so things develop at a steady pace without overshadowing the plot.

Speaking of development I really loved how the author balanced the world the characters live in exploring the makeup and the various religions.. again giving just the right amount of time to show it’s importance.

There’s plenty of action too for those who like a battle or two. I can’t help but love how the author managed to mirror the physical battles with the mental battles the main characters face. Who can they trust, can they trust each other.. can they even trust their own feelings and motivations..

Very fulfilling read.

4/5 stars

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!

Tempted yet?

Book Links

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62452845-empire-of-hanging-swords

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/hangingswords-zbt

Who is R.R. Egal?

R. R. Egal is part writer and part eldritch terror. Empire of Hanging Swords is her debut novel and was inspired by her love of mythology in all its forms. Some of her favourite things in life are cats, old war movies, and the Oxford comma. When she’s not writing, she enjoys watching historical documentaries and reading sad poems.

Why not follow the tour..

BLOG TOUR – The Atlantis Covenant by Rob Jones

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for The Atlantis Covenant by Rob Jones 

Here’s the blurb

The greatest mystery of all time is about to be revealed. 

When world-famous archaeologist and ex-soldier Max Hunter finds a mysterious artifact in a tomb beneath the Gates of Nineveh, his lifelong dream of finding Atlantis comes one step closer. 

But he’s not the only one looking for it… 

His discovery unleashes a high-speed hunt for the lost civilization between a mysterious Swiss foundation, the FBI, and the world’s most secretive society. 

From the dangers of the Iraqi desert to Cuba and the jungles of El Salvador to the enigmatic Valley of the Kings in Egypt, Hunter faces a race against time and murderous enemies who will stop at nothing to claim the greatest prize in history. As he fights for his life, it soon becomes apparent that his enemies are searching for something altogether more sinister than the lost city… 

Hunter must use his unique ingenuity and knowledge to decipher the clues and find Atlantis – and its lethal treasures – before they fall into enemy hands. 

Review 

The Atlantis Covenant follows Max Hunter as he sets out to prove Atlantis is real.. Think Indiana Jones meets Mission Impossible. 

When we first meet Max he’s just discovered a statue that could change the worlds view on Atlantis.. Only for it to pulled from his hands at the last moment and finds himself prisoner. 

Through a little luck he finds a way out of the mess but this is only the beginning! 

Hunter will stop at nothing to find the proof he needs but it’s clear he’s not the only one… and those following the same path don’t necessarily have his compassion or morals!  

Max finds himself backed by a mysterious Swiss Organisation.. The issue is.. Can they be trusted themselves.. Are their motives aligned with Hunters?  

Hunter is smart though.. He knows to watch his back but at the same time will do what he needs to, to get what he needs and quickly we see Hunter set out to decipher one of the biggest mysteries. 

The task see’s him meet various people along the way, and visits to different locations around the world. What I really loved is the author packed in enough detail to make those individuals and locations come to life but really kept the excitement focused fully on the adventure.. 

Hunter has to fight his way through puzzles but at the same time dodge enemies which seem to be everywhere.. 

Fast paced is an understatement.. Nothings rush but damn the action keeps coming and coming and really keeps the adrenaline coursing through the reader.  

I really liked Max he’s got a cockiness about himself.. Not so much that you dislike him.. He just believes in himself and doesn’t know when to quit! 

For my first foray into the authors style I really liked the energy, it bounces off the page and grabs you. There’s plenty of development throughout but leaves plenty of doors open for the author to explore leaving the characters anything but one dimensional.    

Strong plot mixed with intriguing characters equals a cracking story in my book. 

I’ve always been a fan of this kind of tale, adventure and history mixed, the unknown that could be right there but hidden.. Its exciting and fun..  

Super 4* read for me.. Really enjoyed the ride! 

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/AtlantisCovenantbook 

Author Bio –  

Rob Jones has published over forty books in the genres of action-adventure, action-thriller and crime. Many of his chart-topping titles have enjoyed number-one rankings and his Joe Hawke and Jed Mason series have been international bestsellers. Originally from England, today he lives in Australia with his wife and children. 

Social Media Links –   

Facebook: @RobJonesNovels 

Twitter: @AuthorRobJones 

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/RobJonesNews 

BLOG TOUR – The Dragon’s Tooth by Benjamin Coward

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Today we kick off the blog tour for The Dragon’s Tooth by Benjamin Coward!

Here’s the blurb.

Dark forces are trying to overthrow the Seven Kingdoms. Can Calderon, the orphaned Kusarku prince, master a powerful magical weapon—and learn to trust his own abilities—in time to save his race and others?

After the devastating Grey War and the death of their beloved king and queen, the Kusarkus, descendants of minotaurs, reluctantly relinquished their independence and accepted the “generous protection” of the elves.

Since then, Calderon, the only heir to the Kusarku throne, has had to hide his true identity.

But when the Seven Kingdoms come under attack by unknown forces and the Kusarku are blamed, the young prince must journey to the human capital of Alezadria to defend his race and accept the responsibility of his birthright.

If not the Kusarku, though, then who is leading the hordes of goblins and trolls against innocent citizens? And who can Calderon trust, even within his own kingdom?

To aid in his struggle against evil, Calderon’s adoptive father, Bard, presents him with one half of his father’s powerful magical sword – The Dragon’s Tooth.

Working together with his friends, can Calderon master the legendary obsidian weapon and his own magical abilities in time to save the Seven Kingdoms?

Review

The Dragon’s Tooth follows Calderon, an orphaned prince, as he sets out to meet with King Adam to save his peoples reputation and to ensure the kingdom comes together to face the threat knocking at their door!

Along the way we learn about Calderon’s family and a strange weapon left by his father. How does he use it? and can he live up to his fathers image? There’s also a strange power just lying under the surface, can Calderon harness it safely?

The Dragon’s Tooth is an epic coming of age tale where the threat of attacks starts a landslide of change for young Calderon!

What I really loved was the pace versus the word count, the book isn’t overly wordy but the author didn’t rush anything and let the story unfold at a steady pace. The author even manages to pack in the detail needed to imagine the world and the people we meet along the way vividly!

Being a YA novel I felt the author really managed bring the story to life well whilst also tackling difficult topics such as exploring the differences between the races, prejudices and the struggle to feel self worth. What makes it even better is that it’s a natural flowing tale allowing the reader to stop to ponder their own feelings without feeling like the author forced you there..

I loved seeing Calderon grow, seeing him deal with different events and not only that but also navigating relationships as we meet new characters along the way.

Overall The Dragon’s Tooth is a epic tale, smart plot with well developed foundations. Ticks all the boxes! 5*

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!

Tempted yet?

Book Links

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217515246-the-dragon-s-tooth

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/dragonstooth-zbt

Who is Benjamin Coward?

Growing up in the heartland of Missouri, author Benjamin Coward first discovered the thrill of world-building through role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons and books in The Inheritance Cycle series by Christopher Paolini.

In his debut YA fantasy novel, Benjamin masterfully creates a realm where relatable characters fight evil opponents and overcome struggles through teamwork and self-trust.

With a bachelor’s degree in environmental science and now living and working in north central Florida, Benjamin’s love of nature and history often seep into his storytelling, enriching the fantastical worlds he creates.

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Where can you find them?

Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560607996009&_rdr
Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/benjamin_coward_author/
X (formerly Twitter)https://x.com/CowardBenj28064

Why not follow the tour…

Blog Tour – One More to Die by Joy Ellis

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Today we kick off the blog tour for One More to Die by Joy Ellis!

Here’s the blub

Detective Kate Carter is called out to a fatal car accident on a remote fen lane.

At first glance it looks like a drunk driver simply lost control and crashed headlong into a ditch. But nothing about the scene adds up. The number plate is fake. The driver’s licence doesn’t belong to the dead man in the car. One tyre doesn’t match the other three. And what is a vinyl 1960s pop record doing in the glove box?

A neat puncture wound to the driver’s neck reveals this was no accident.

The following day, the body of a young woman is found in an old barn out on the fens. She’s been dead at least two years. Placed on the body is another vintage pop record.

And then the nightmare becomes personal. A mysterious package arrives at the station addressed to Kate: a 45-rpm record, and a chilling note scrawled in block capitals: ONE MORE TO GO.

It’s just the start. Sinister phone calls, creepy notes left on her car, unwanted gifts on her doorstep: Kate can no longer deny that she’s being pursued by an obsessive stalker . . .

Is she next in the killer’s sights?

Review

One More To Die follows Detective Kate Carter as her personal and work lives clash in spectacular fashion.

It all starts when Kate is called to a crime scene, a car accident.. but before she even sets off she finds a creepy note on her car.. being in a rush and not thinking much of it in the moment Kate heads off to the crime scene.

Things don’t add up at the scene of the accident and it becomes clear there’s more too it, who is the victim? why does the car have fake plates?.. and what’s the deal with the record found in the car.. bit of a strange find.

When another body turns up Kate is sent to do the groundwork before handing it over to another Detective… little does she know this case will soon be hers… another record has been found with the body.. what’s the connection with the first victim?

While the pressure mounts at work, stress is also building at home…after the initial note found on the car there’s also been a box of Kate’s favourite chocolates left and a very creepy phone call.. this is the last thing she and her family need…she could have a stalker! She needs to keep her family safe.. they could be watching.. waiting..

This is my first foray into the writing style of Joy Ellis and I must admit I loved it. The plot was intriguing, and progresses at a steady pace. I loved the clash of personal and work lives and the humanity added to the development of the characters given the situation they face.

I really enjoyed how the plot developed too, the people, the reasons behind the murders.. oo it gave tingles as you could see the pieces of the puzzle slotting together but at the same time the author kept little nuggets of info/twists for just the right moment to give the tale a real punch!

So can Kate find a way to deal with do situations? You’ll have to grab a copy of the book and find out! you won’t be disappointed.

Super fun and fast read. 5*

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!

Who is Joy Ellis?

I was born in Kent but spent most of my working life in London and Surrey. I was an apprentice florist to Constance Spry Ltd, a prestigious Mayfair shop that throughout the Sixties and Seventies teemed with both royalty and ‘real’ celebrities. What an eye-opener for a working-class kid from the Garden of England! I swore then, probably whilst I was scrubbing the floor or making the tea, that I would have a shop of my own one day. It took until the early Eighties, but I did it. Sadly the recession wiped us out, and I embarked on a series of weird and wonderful jobs; the last one being a bookshop manager. Surrounded by books all day, getting to order whatever you liked, and being paid for it! Oh bliss!

And now I live in a village in the Lincolnshire Fens with my partner, Jacqueline, and three Springer spaniels and four little rescue, Breton spaniels. I had been writing mysteries for years but never had the time to take it seriously. Now I write full-time, and as my partner is a highly decorated retired police officer; my choice of genre is a no-brainer! I have an on-tap police and judicial consultant, who makes exceedingly good tea!

I have set my crime thrillers here in the misty fens because I sincerely love the remoteness and airy beauty of the marshlands. This area is steeped in superstitions and lends itself so well to murder!

I am lucky enough to be one of the amazing Joffe Books team of authors and am really enjoying being able to spend time doing what I love… writing!

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Where can you find them?

Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/Joyellisbooks
Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/joyellisbooks/

Books Links

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/217410403-one-more-to-die

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/onemoretodie-zbt

Why not follow the tour?

BLOG TOUR – Dead Reckoning by Rob Sinclair!

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Today is my turn on the blog tour for Dead Reckoning by Rob Sinclair!

Here’s the blurb

The most dangerous people are those with nothing to lose. Who don’t care if they live or die.

Simon Peake does care… he just isn’t sure about what right now. The ex-soldier’s life is as close to rock bottom as it gets.

He needs a job and he needs a quiet life.

What he gets is a whole load of mess working for New York-based Irish mobster Harry Lafferty. A job that requires him to use his special skills on some very unsavory people. His relationship with Harry’s niece isn’t exactly conducive to a quiet existence either…

As Peake tries to walk the fine line between surviving in this new life, and atoning for his old one, he struggles on both counts. And when his past comes back to bite him, and those closest to him are threatened, the reckoning will be merciless for anyone who stands in his way.

Review

Dead Reckoning follows Simon Peak, ex-soldier, down and out.. Peak needs a job and fast.

Peak has been in prison but it’s time to turn his life around.. well as much as possible. His opportunities are limited so he ends up at the doorstep of Harry Lafferty and his crew.

The pressure is ramped up when Peaks landlord demands 3 months rent so when the crew need a driver Peak doesn’t say no.

Little does he know his fate is now sealed.

Peak gets slowly sucked into their world and almost immediately makes a decision that will come back to bite him.

It’s not all doom and gloom though.. Peak finds a connection with Harry’s niece..but can he balance work and the growing connection between them?

Added to that Peak has history.. and an anger inside that he must use every ounce of strength to keep buried.

The thing about history is it won’t stay buried forever.

Things soon start going wrong and people end up getting hurt.. but why? Can Peak put the pieces together?

What I really loved was the timeline as the author explores both past and present, allowing the reader to learn about who Peak really is.. what broke him. It’s dark, gripping and packed full of high octane wow moments.

I love the little details added to, to give real depth to the main characters, emotions.. a realness.

The authors real talent for writing shines through and if you are a fan like me you’ll love it. Rob Sinclair manages to keep offering new and fresh characters that you get invested in but with the same gripping edge and style of story we love. There’s twists and turns along the way that really pack a punch too.

5/5 Stars

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour!

Why not check out the rest of the stops on the tour?

Tempted yet?

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/DeadReckoningSocial

Author Bio –

Rob Sinclair is the million copy bestseller of over twenty thrillers, including the James Ryker series. Rob previously studied Biochemistry at Nottingham University. He also worked for a global accounting firm for 13 years, specialising in global fraud investigations.

Social Media Links

Facebook: @robsinclairauthor

Twitter: @rsinclairauthor

Instagram: n/a

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/RobSinclairNews

Bookbub profile:@RobSinclair

BLOG TOUR – The Bodies by Sam Lloyd

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Today we kick off the blog tour and celebrate the release of The Bodies by Sam Lloyd!!!

Here’s the blurb!

Blurb

How many times would you let your child get away with murder?

When you look down at your newborn baby, you realise they were right, those smug parents you’ve always rolled your eyes at: you’d do literally anything for your child. To make them happy, keep them safe.

So when Joseph Carver wakes one night to find his teenage son Max scrubbing the kitchen, hands wet with blood and panic flooding his voice as he promises it was an accident, he didn’t mean to do it, Joseph does the only thing he can. He helps Max bury the body.

Joseph thinks that’s the end of the nightmare. Until he finds Max with stricken eyes and bloody hands once again . . .

You’d do anything for your child – even cover up a murder.

But how many times?

Review

After reading the authors previous offering The Memory Wood I had high expectations, but also knew I wouldn’t be disappointed… just look at the synopsis!!

Joseph Carver is a broken man trying to keep things together..we soon learn Joseph and his partner were brought together through grief.. he’s failed protecting his family once.. he won’t let it happen again.

When his son Max arrives home one night covered in blood Joseph’s vow is put to the test. Max is going to medical school soon and he’s not a monster afterall.. he’s just lost.. Joseph needs to protect him.

It’s not an easy task, how does he get rid of a body? Where?

Joseph hides the body at his late mothers bungalow while he tries to figure things out but things go from bad to worse.. first he needs to act like everything is ok when it’s not.. and second things keep getting in the way.. how does he do things without leaving a trace? And has anyone already noticed something? Doesn’t help either that Max seems to be hiding things from him about the man he killed? Can he really trust Max and the story he’s been told?

I’m not going to give the plot away but one thing I loved when reading The Memory Wood was the twists and turns.. smart and exhilarating.. and I’m glad to see those twists were here in The Bodies too..there’s betrayal, blood and bodies at every turn.

The plot isn’t rushed either, although you feel the urgency pouring from Joseph who shows the lengths he will go to in order to keep Max safe…but there’s something he’s not seeing.

When someone close to the victim turns up the heat is really on… what do they know..what’s going to happen… eeek.

It’s a real page turner..it flows easy but really has some detail packed in too revealing the stress of the situation. Nothing is quite what it seems and its that feeling that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Super exciting 5* read!

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ Zooloo’s Book Tours for having me on the tour!

Sam’s Bio

SAM LLOYD grew up in Hampshire, where he learned his love of storytelling. These days he lives in Surrey with his wife, three young sons and a dog that likes to howl. His first three thrillers, The Memory Wood, The Rising Tide and The People Watcher were published to great critical acclaim.

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Sam’s Social Media

Twitter: https://x.com/samlloydwrites

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Book Links

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220246417-the-bodies

Purchase Link: https://mybook.to/thebodies-zbt

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BLOG TOUR – Metropolis by Colin Garrow

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Metropolis by Colin Garrow!

Here’s the blurb.

Edinburgh, 1936. People are disappearing. The police are clueless. Can Finlay MacBeth track down the perpetrator before someone else goes missing?

Haunted by his recent past, Professor Finlay MacBeth returns to his home town to take up a new post at the university. Within hours, his reputation for solving the occasional murder prompts the police to ask for his help. Four men—seemingly unconnected—have vanished into thin air. MacBeth must find whatever it is that links the men before the kidnapper strikes again.

But the police aren’t the only ones interested in MacBeth’s activities, and the amateur sleuth soon discovers that finding the missing men is the least of his problems…

In this thriller series set in Edinburgh, Metropolis is book #1 in the Finlay MacBeth Thriller series.

Review

Professor Finlay MacBeth returns home to take up a teaching position at the local university. Two things become clear very quickly, First, MacBeth has previously helped the police with investigations so his reputation precedes him, and second, he’s not alone.. someone has followed him.. buy why? And for what reason.

MacBeth quickly gets drawn into a case, men are going missing but there’s no links and zero leads.. could these men have simply upped and left, or is there something more sinister afoot.. Well MacBeth will find out one way or another.

MacBeth does have that Sherlock Holmes feel about him but at the same time is certainly his own character, who has his own dark past that’s trying to catch up to him.

As MacBeth investigates his focus is distracted a lot by the man who followed him and he employees the services of a young lad to assist him with gathering information to help him. Little Johnnie was a really fun character, full of energy and just what the tale needed, he’s the perfect accompaniment to MacBeth.

The cases itself was really intriguing, the missing men, why them, where are they now, why they disappeared in the first place… all these questions get answered but it’s like a drug to the reader, being drip fed.. oh wow…not to spoil it but the motivations behind the disappearances… brilliant!

I really loved the dark tone of the story too..there’s moments you don’t see coming.

Now, MacBeth’s personal issues. As with any good character he’s flawed. His dark past is waiting to see the light of day but what Garrow did superbly was to blend both of these plots lines together, with neither overshadowing the other. It really gave some depth seeing the main character juggle things and try and move things along in the right direction without giving up his secrets.

I’m a big fan of the authors style of writing and always feel at home with their work… I know what to expect.. it’s going to be a good read no matter what.. but Garrow certainly knows how to keep upping his game, keeps the reader guessing, and continues to offer top quality, character driven plots

Sublime 5*

My thanks go to the author and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour

Tempeted?

Purchase Link – https://geni.us/ps3XiW

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

Colin Garrow grew up in a former mining town in Northumberland. He has worked in a plethora of professions including taxi driver, antiques dealer, drama facilitator, theatre director and fish processor, and has occasionally masqueraded as a pirate.

He has published more than thirty books, and his short stories have appeared in several literary mags, most recently in Witcraft, and Flash Fiction North. Colin lives in a humble cottage in Northeast Scotland where he writes novels, stories, poems and the occasional song.

He also plays several musical instruments and makes rather nice vegan cakes.

Social Media Links –

Website: https://colingarrow.co.uk/

Twitter: https://x.com/colingarrow

Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/colingarrowauthor.bsky.social

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colinngarrow/

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/colin-garrow

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/colingarrowthewriter

BLOG TOUR – Fields of Glory by Michael Jecks – REVIEW

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Fields of Glory by Michael Jecks.

Here’s the blurb.

1346. France. King Edward III is restless. Despite earlier victories the French crown remains intact. Determined to bring France under his own rule, Edward has devised a new plan of attack – one which he believes will finally bring the French army to its knees: a final, cataclysmic battle …

Berenger Fripper, Vintener of a pox-ridden mob of sixteen who make up the Vintaine of Sir John de Sully, storms the beaches of Normandy to bring victory to their king. But the French are nowhere to be seen…

And so Berenger leads his Vintaine through France and onward to battle – the Battle of Crécy – one which will both bond and break his men and be a decisive turning point in the Hundred Years’ War.

Review

This was my first foray into the works of Michael Jecks and being billed as being perfect for fans of Bernard Cornwell and Conn Iggulden expectations were high.

Fields of Glory follows the English army from the beaches of Normandy, through destruction and mayhem to Paris, before retreat and the inevitable battle with  the French army.

History is a massive submit and I’ll be the first to admit I’m no expert but what I’d like to think I am an expert in, is spotting authors who have a talent for storytelling, and in particular historial fiction.

The author manages to impart his knowledge of the period but expertly weaves this with character arcs. History is never boring but you need to get your hooks into the reader to keep them invested.

I think what made this story stand out was that each of the characters have their own motivations and part to play in the story but they are treated as cattle essentially.. it’s brutal and honest..these men will need to earn any glory and its the relationships, and sometimes the disconnection between the men and those who command them which really felt real to me.

Being new to the author I felt at home pretty quickly, the style very much hit the mark as as Bernard Cornwell fan but if you are new to the genre do give the book the time it deserves. The style and pace are perfect but this is not a light read.. you will really get engrossed as there’s so many minute details added which I just loved.

Michael Jecks commands the reader..and pushes your thoughts exactly the way the men must have felt at the time..you start to detest Sir John, King Edward and the Prince of Wales as they care little for the lives that will be lost. These moments are vivid but certainly disconnected as we see things through the eyes of the men fighting at the front.

There are moments of brutality that will stay with you, the Kings justice..it’s emotionally jarring and thought provoking. I felt the focus of the book allowed the reader to see the brutality from both sides, not only the violence carried out on the French but also the effect this had on the men themselves.. you can see the humanity and light within their eyes die as the “justice” continues.

Awfully good read and a cracking start for a series. Jecks managed to surpass any expectations I may have had with the sheer detail, and what felt like a brutality honest portrayal seen from those men’s eyes.

5* from me.. and great to see Boldwood getting involved. As a publisher they are killing it with the historical fiction genre and never fail to introduce me to top notch authors.

My thanks go to the author, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour

Tempted? Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/Fieldsof

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

Studied actuarial science, then became a computer salesman for 13 years- after the 13th company folded, he turned to writing.

He’s the author of 50 novels, 6 novellas, 4 collaborative books and short stories. His tales are inspired by history and legends, but are all grounded in real life and real people, what motivates them, and why they turn to violence.

Founder of Medieval Murderers, he has served on the committees of: Historical Writers’ Association, CWA and Detection Club. He has judged the Debut Dagger, Ian Fleming Steel Dagger and other prizes, as well as serving as Dagger liaison officer and CWA Chair. He has taught writing at Swanwick and Evesham, and tutored for the Royal Literary Fund. He now runs South West Writers in Devon.

His work has been celebrated by Visconti and Conway Stewart pens; 2014 he was International Guest of Honour at the Bloody Words festival in Toronto, and Grand Master of the first parade in the New Orleans Mardi Gras.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: @Michael.Jecks.author

Twitter: @MichaelJecks

Instagram: @michaeljecks

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/MichaelJecksNews

Bookbub profile: @michaeljecks