Today I’m taking part in the series blog tour for The James Ryker Series by Rob Sinclair… kicking off with a review of The Green Viper.
Here’s the blurb:
I need your help. Call me.
Ex-intelligence agent James Ryker receives a coded message through a secret drop point, a means of communication known only to him and one other person. The problem is, that other person is his ex-boss, Mackie… and he’s already dead.
But the cry for help is real, and it’s a request Ryker can’t refuse.
Travelling to New York alone and without official sanction, Ryker has a single goal in mind, yet even he couldn’t have bargained for the violent world he’s soon embroiled in. Caught in the middle of a spiralling chaos with the FBI on one side, and two warring underworld bosses on the other, Ryker must put all of his skills to the test in order to come out on top, and keep his word.
In a world full of lies and deceit, loyalty is everything, and it’s time for James Ryker to pay his dues.
Review
I’ve been a fan of the author the last couple of years or so. I came to his books a bit late but quickly devoured them. Each tale was gripping from start to finish and I had high hopes for The Green Viper.
The Green Viper once again demonstrates the author’s ability to write a heart thumbing thriller. By now you’d think the author would have run out of steam perhaps..where else can he go with the character? Well let me tell you he’s wrote a cracker again!
As with the previous tales in the Ryker series things are personal. The events he gets sucked into are out of his control largely but let’s be honest..He’s a magnet for danger!
A message with links to Ryker’s past sets the wheels in motion on a tense thriller full of suspense. It’s the buildup of the plot that really hooks you in..never quite knowing what will happen next.
Now, not to give the plot of the story away too much Ryker is enlisted to help get someone out of danger..but this individual just can’t see the danger he’s in..or he’s just ignorant to it.
Ryker has his work cut out for him thats for sure and there’s multiple players in the dangerous game; Ryker needs to find out what their interest Is so he can anticipate their next move (easier said than done).
Will he make it out alive? Come on you already know the answer don’t you.. lets just say though Ryker will be haunted by this mission..he struggles to let go of the past and this will certainly eat away at him I’m sure..he needs an outlet for his frustrations and his ex boss may just be able to help.. lets see what the future holds..
A super tense thriller, the plot is great and I loved how it developed. The multiple angles the story was approached from kept me engaged and thoroughly excited to the very last page!
My thanks go to the author, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour, I’ve been a fan of the author for a while so was my pleasure to jump on the tour. Big fan of the authors work here on David’s Book Blurg.
Why not follow the rest of the tour to find out more?
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.
Today we kick off the blog tour for Excalibur by Peter Gibbons!
Here’s the blurb
The sword has the power of Britain in its steel, men will follow and fight for whoever wields it…
Dark Age Britain. A legendary hero rises to unite a divided and threatened land…
A country left in ruins after the fall of the Roman Empire is plundered and broken. Saxon hordes have invaded and conquered the East coast of Britain in a blood-soaked Great War which tore the old kingdoms apart. From Bernicia to Kent, land and kingdoms are now under Saxon rule. But these new conquerors want more…
Britain’s remaining kingdoms are jaded by the constant threat of war, their Kings old, alliances fickle and frayed. It seems Britain must fall enslaved to the brutal and marauding conquerors from across the sea.
But no one counted on a new and fearsome warlord. A warrior granted power by the druid Merlin through the mighty sword Excalibur. A man with no Kingdom but a quest to unite the country and fight back against the baying Saxon warriors? He is known as the legendary Arthur.
The compelling, fast-paced start of a brand new series from bestselling writer Peter Gibbons. Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwall.
Praise for the series:
‘Epic, brutal action’ – Matthew Harffy
‘Bloody and brutal, Peter’s vivid writing really brings the story to life.’ – Donovan Cook
‘A superbly atmospheric tale of redemption that pitches the English against Viking raiders and resounds with the fierceness of battle-hardened warriors’ – MJ Porter
‘Thunderously atmospheric! Gibbons once again proves himself a master of Viking & Dark Age lore.’ – Gordon Doherty
‘Absolutely cracking. The best Viking saga I’ve read in years. A joy to pick up again.’ – Ross Greenwood
Review
To say Peter Gibbons has fast become a favourite of mine is an understatement. The author and publisher Boldwood, have been killing it in the historical fiction genre recently so when I learnt a new series was starting you can imagine the excitement I felt.
The Arthurian Chronicles tells us about one of the most fascinating characters in history in my opinion – Arthur. From a young age Arthur held a lot of interest to me.. mainly because no one could say one way or another if he existed but the whole idea of Arthur and the sword Excalibur excited me! for me it’s a risk going for Arthur as you need to get that excitement level right to match the myths, and the reader is going to have high expectations.
Did Gibbons deliver? Of course he did!! Gibbons knows his craft and most certainly knows his audience. We have what I’ve come to expect…the wonderful, dark and gruesome gore that any battle loving fan needs but the story is wonderfully weaved with fact and fiction.. I think that’s what makes Gibbon’s writing so exciting to read as his topics always allow some leeway for events to play out and you can really see the effort put into the tale to make the pieces come together.
The author isn’t afraid of detail either, setting the scene.. the ensemble cast too with many a familiar name, each play a part in the development and flow of the tale but in typical Gibbon’s style nothing Is forced in there, its done in what feels like such an effortless way, but I know must have took quite some time to write.
Book 1 is all about laying the foundations but that doesn’t mean you don’t have excitement and you can tell towards the end of the book that a battle is brewing.. but there’s still time for the author to keep the reader on their toes too leaving the reader fulfilled..but at the same time in silent shock.
I know I bang on about pace and flow.. probably way too much… but Peter Gibbon’s gets it.. the mix is so perfect it builds the excitement from the 1st page to last..
Don’t just take my word for any this either.. just look at the praise for the author.. Harffy, Cook, Porter and Doherty.. all household names in my book and certainly authors who are keeping my bookshelves full.
I did want to say there’s a downside but there isnt.. I’m always keen to crack on with the next book..luckily I won’t need to wait long with the next instalment already up for pre-order for release later in the year!
A very impressive read and after enjoying a lot of the authors books of late I feel like it’s also something new and fresh allowing Gibbon’s to further cement himself as one of the best authors out there!
My thanks go to Rob Sinclair, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I only accept ARCs to aid timely reviews but this will certainly be adding a paperback to the permanent collection
Why not follow the tour?
Author Bio –
Peter is the winner of the 2022 Kindle Storyteller Literary Award, and an author based in Kildare in Ireland, with a passion for Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Science Fiction, and of course writing! Peter was born in Warrington in the UK and studied Law at Liverpool John Moores University, before taking up a career in Financial Services and is now a full time author. Peter currently lives in Kildare Ireland, and is married with three children. Peter is an avid reader of both Historical Fiction and Fantasy novels, particularly those of Bernard Cornwell, Steven Pressfield, David Gemmell, and Brandon Sanderson. His books include the Viking Blood and Blade Saga and the first novel in his new Saxon Warrior Series entitled Warrior & Protector was released on 31st October 2022 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B45MMSBV . You can visit Peter’s website at www.petermgibbons.com .
Today is my turn on the blog tour for Neptune’s Secret Code by Genna Rowbotham.
Keep reading for a little giveaway too!!!
Here’s the blurb
★ ★★ An Undersea Adventure filled with Magic, Friendship, and Bravery! ★★★
When Hannah is sucked into a vicious whirlpool in her effort to rescue kitten Leo,
she finds herself entering Neptune’s Undersea Kingdom where she
reawakens terrifying sea monsters from the depths of the sea.
The trouble is… Hannah is unable to return home until she’s overcome her
fear of the water, defeated the sea monsters, and solved the code that she
broke upon entering Neptune’s Kingdom.
With the help of her new friend, Marcie the Mermaid, will Hannah succeed?
Review
So me and my little one Georgia sat down to read this one together. Georgia loved the synopsis straightaway.
Hannah is travelling to stay with her auntie in Cornwall.. she’s not overly excited at first as she has a real fear of the sea but her auntie has a secret weapon to keep her happy…a lovely little kitten.. Leo.
Auntie Meg does everything she can to get Hannah to let go any enjoy herself but it’s little Leo that ultimately gets Hannah out of the house and reluctantly down by the sea..
Sucked into a whirlpool this sends Hannah on a magical journey and the only way to get home is to overcome her fears..
Georgia was taken in quite quickly by the story and the characters and loved the pictures too.
For me, I just loved the theme.. it’s got a the fantasy adventure edge that will appeal but I loved the idea of Hannah needing to face her fears.. it’s more depth to the tale than simply being a fun little adventure.
The author did a really great job of depicting a fascinating undersea world.. full a marvellous creatures and scary monsters.
The chapters are a decent length for a young reader, Georgia is 9 and reads well and you could see the flow was spot on, enticing her to read more.. it’s not always easy to keep a 9 year old focused but the author effortlessly kept her attention fully on the story.
Overall Neptune’s Secret Code is a vivid, perfectly paced fantasy perfectly aimed at younger readers and as a parent it felt great seeing Hannah battle those fears.. we all have fears we need to battle in life and it was nice to see the author tackle that in such a fun and exciting way.
My thanks go to Genna Rowbotham and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour and for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Keep reading if you want a chance to win a cheeky little giveaway!
Why not follow the tour?
Author Bio –
Genna Rowbotham started her career as a secretary and has since founded GR Typing Services, an online secretarial business. Inspired by her children, in 2017, she wrote her first story and is now the author of ten books as well as a short story published in the magazine, Brilliant Brainz. Genna has a passion for writing stories that entertain, educate and inspire young ones so they can escape the seriousness of life and enter a world of magic.
She lives with her husband and lively, imaginative daughters in Derbyshire in a house full of books, magazines and all sorts of artwork from her children (empty cereal boxes are often taken from the recycle bin to reinvent something wonderful like a spy camera or a telescope).
When Genna’s not writing, she loves reading, star gazing, movie nights, and exploring the great outdoors with her family. You can find out more about Genna’s books on her website at www.gennarowbotham.co.uk
Giveaway to Win One signed copy of Neptune’s Secret Code and One signed copy of Lottie the Ladybird’s Adventure (Open to UK Only)
Click the picture below to enter!!!
*Terms and Conditions –UK entries welcome. Please enter using the Rafflecopter box below. The winner will be selected at random via Rafflecopter from all valid entries and will be notified by Twitter and/or email. If no response is received within 7 days then Rachel’s Random Resources reserves the right to select an alternative winner. Open to all entrants aged 18 or over. Any personal data given as part of the competition entry is used for this purpose only and will not be shared with third parties, with the exception of the winners’ information. This will passed to the giveaway organiser and used only for fulfilment of the prize, after which time Rachel’s Random Resources will delete the data. I am not responsible for despatch or delivery of the prize.
Today is my turn on the blog tour for Rogue Hero by Rob Sinclair
Here’s the blurb
When a mystery bystander stops an assassination attempt on a prominent politician, it sparks a national search that captivates the nation…
Curtis Delaney watches the footage play out on the news, and immediately recognises the unidentified hero. He hasn’t seen his brother Finn in six years. He doesn’t know where he’s been in that time, or what he’s been doing. But there’s one thing he does know: Finn is no hero.
Curtis is determined to find his brother, but equally, Curtis is no detective. A husband and lawyer (and not the ‘good’ kind), with a mortgage and responsibilities, Curtis isn’t cut out for delving into whatever seedy business Finn has gotten involved with. But when armed men turn up on his doorstep, claiming to be FBI, he quickly realises he’s been left with no choice.
The hunt for the truth will take them from the Capitol building in Washington, to the sun-kissed beaches of Mexico, and the cold streets of London, uncovering secrets of fraud, blackmail and murder. Can the brothers reunite before the real hero is discovered by the wrong people?
Review
I’m a big fan of the authors work so was eager to get stuck into Rogue Hero.
The story starts of strong, setting the scene as a failed assassination attempt takes place.. but why did the hero run away? Who were they?
Curtis Delaney watches the footage as it hits the news and immediately knows who the hero is… it’s his brother Finn.
They might be brothers but it’s been 6 years since they last saw each other and they didn’t part on good terms.. but Curtis can’t help but want to help his brother out..
Here’s where things start to get juicy, the story switches focus between characters and we learn about Finn’s past.. it teases you in it’s build up.
We also see Curtis in the current day trying to balance his own work and life commitments with that of finding his brother.
What I really found interesting was the character development.. the focus shifts so neatly, the pace so good that you find it hard to really form the full picture of Curtis and Finn.. there’s so much going on.. its was a marvellously jam packed tale.. the brothers are more similar than you originally think.. both jealous and impetuous..its the perfect combo for a engrossing action thriller novel.
The devil is in the detail they say and Rob Sinclair knows how to write! When you are about 50% through.. while the waters are still unclear you start to see a shift..links.. but there’s more and more questions too.
It’s a complete mind f**k to pardon my language.. like its so unbelievably good but you just don’t see things coming.. like wow..there’s murder.. fraud.. blackmail.. but to what end? Oh Mr Sinclair.. you know how to hook me in don’t you ha ha.
I think the word to best highlight for this book is pace, in every aspect, the chapters flow well, not too long or short either.. each chapter designed just to give you enough to see the movement but not enough to give everything away too soon but at the same time nothing was drawn out or boring.. just a perfectly executed story that I reckon everyone will love!
This is by far the most engrossing tale from the author yet!
My thanks go to Rob Sinclair, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I only accept ARCs to aid timely reviews but this will certainly be adding a paperback to the permanent collection… If anyone has some decent shelves let me know… mine are starting to sag under the weight ha ha.
Why not follow the tour?
Author Bio –
Rob Sinclair is the million copy bestseller of over twenty thrillers, including the James Ryker series. Most recently published by Bloodhound, Boldwood will publish his latest action thriller, Rogue Hero, in June 2024 and will be republishing all the James Ryker series over the coming months.
Today is my stop on the blog tour for SIN:THETICA by Keith Anthony Baird
As a fellow Baird (no relation to my knowledge ha) it felt right to jump on board with this tour and I can tell you now I’m so glad I did!
Here’s the blurb
The Sino-Nippon war is over.
It is 2113 and Japan is crushed under the might of Chinese-Allied Forces.
A former Coalition Corps soldier, US Marine Balaam Hendrix is now a feared bounty hunter known as ‘The Reverend’.
In the sprawl of NeuTokyo, on this lawless frontier, he must track down the rogue employee of a notorious crime lord.
But, there’s a twist.
His target has found protection inside a virtual reality construct and Hendrix must go cyber-side to corner his quarry. The glowing neon signs for SIN:THETICA are everywhere, and promise escape from a dystopian reality.
But will it prove the means by which this hunter snares his prey, or will it be the trap he simply can’t survive?
Review
Set in the future we meet Balaam Hendrix, a former Marine who’s done his time and has the scars to show for it.
Hendrix is a now feared bounty hunter…no one can escape his justice once he’s got them in his sight..
An interesting offer comes knocking on his door.. and although it screams “danger” Hendrix can’t turn down the money..and he’s smart too.. it might be more of an issue for him if he ignores the offer so he might as well make some money out of the situation.
What’s the job you might ask.. well he’s got to track someone down…and keep them alive long enough for his employer to mete out justice.. not his typical job.. he’s usually a shoot first kind of guy but Hendrix can manage it.
Then the twist hits.. the mark is protected.. protected by virtual reality.. if he’s brought out too soon he would die and that wouldn’t please his employer so Hendrix heads into the cyber world to track the man down.
Now this is where the twists really come.. there’s lots of action showing the skill Hendrix has but at the same time the cogs are turning and Hendrix knows things aren’t adding up.. but why? What’s the end game here… it just doesn’t make sense.
The ending left me shocked but quite in awe too.. it was a real curveball and a damn good one too.
I know I bang on about pace and flow but damn.. SIN:THETICA nails it! There’s never time to get bored or tired.. it’s exciting and engaging and the story flows naturally.
And do you want to know the craziest thing? You get all of that for less than £1 on kindle!! Like how can you say no to that??
Super 5* read!
My thanks go to Keith, Brigids Gate Press and Zoé at Zooloo’s Book Tours for allowing me to take part in the tour today! It was a delight to be part of it, a joy to read the book and my absolute pleasure to purchase a copy of the book, it’s a steal at that price!
Today is my turn on the blog tour for Shadow of the Witch by Colin Garrow.
Here’s the blurb
London, 1677. A house with a dark secret. A lawyer in pursuit of magick. A witch, dead for fifty years.
Israel Cutler, dealer in second-hand goods, discovers the journals of Doctor Winter. Detailing the doctor’s relationship with a hanged witch, he recognises an opportunity. Seeking out a lawyer he knows with an interest in the occult, Cutler tries to sell the journals, but soon finds himself involved in a terrifying ritual—one that could bring black witch Lizzie Pickin back from the dead. Again.
Forced into a dangerous partnership, the witch leads Cutler on a trail of murder and revenge.
In this horror series set in London, Shadow of the Witch is book #2 in the Black Witch Saga.
Review
I’m a big fan of Colin’s work, who seems to be able to turn his hand to any genre effortlessly.. I know it’s not going to be that simple to write a book but Colin just seems to have a way with pen and paper.
Shadow of the Witch is book 2 in the Black Witch saga, and I do recommend reading the first volume before getting stuck in. You could pick this up straightaway if you wanted too as Garrow knows how to get just the right amount of detail in for the reader.
The scene is set quickly, it’s dark, eerie and there’s a foreboding atmosphere from the off.
Israel finds the journals of Doctor Winter and quickly he thinks he’s found to way to make a quick bit of money but there’s a dark shadow just waiting to be released and little does he know what he’s stumbles upon.
The journal details the relationship the Doctor had with the Witch.. who was to be hanged..He felt a lot of guilty at the time…why…Someone will want the information surely?
Garrow packs a punch in less than 200 pages that’s for sure. It’s fast flowing and written in such a way it puts you right there.. it’s spinetingling in it’s detail but the pace is spot on!
I’ve really enjoyed the twisted edge to Garrow’s writing style and imagination, there’s a dark humour to it and it feels like one of those tales you’d want to share with young children to stop them visiting a dangerous wood for example.
As with the previous book in the series its disturbingly entertaining and a 5* corker!
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I only accept ARCs to aid timely reviews but this will certainly be adding a paperback to the permanent collection.
To find out more do follow the tour or head to Goodreads and Amazon!
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.
His short stories have appeared in several literary mags, including SN Review, Flash Fiction Magazine, Word Bohemia, Every Day Fiction, The Grind, A3 Review, 1,000 Words, Inkapture and Scribble Magazine. He currently lives in a humble cottage in Northeast Scotland where he writes novels, stories, poems and the occasional song.
Today is my stop on the blog tour for Raven Lord by JC Duncan!
Here’s the blurb
Mercenary. Exile. Warlord.
At the edge of the world, the clouds of war are gathering…
1034AD
Cast out from the Kyivan Rus, Harald Sigurdsson’s quest for fame and fortune takes him to the far reaches of Europe; the lands of the Eastern Roman empire.
The empire is dying the slow death of decay and corruption. In desperation to fend off a myriad of foes, the emperor turns to the legendary Varangian guard for salvation. These deadly warriors from the far north, famed for their fearsome steel and battle skill, have become the empire’s greatest protectors.
From the golden gate of Constantinople to the holy waters of the river Jordan, Harald will march with the emperor’s finest. Joining their ranks promises him all the gold and glory he can desire, if only he can survive the desperate battles, the hostile land, and the ruthless ambition of a vengeful queen.
The fascinating next book in the extraordinary tale of Harald Hardrada. Perfect for fans of Matthew Harffy, Peter Gibbons, Bernard Cornwell and Christian Cameron
Review
One of the things I loved about the previous book in the series was the style of the writing . I love history but I always found text books hard to wrap my head around.. I need it presented in a different way and that’s exactly what JC Duncan does..he adds the excitement and makes it come to life, and that buzz is what makes you want to learn more.
Raven Lord picks up after the events of the previous book Warrior Prince and I loved the preface added by the author. There’s a lot to take in when it comes to history so it was great to have a rundown before starting the next instalment, this allows for a quick refresh if you read the previous book but would also allow someone to read this as a standalone as it sets the scene perfectly for new readers.
Harald’s tale is an amazing one but I feel what makes it more amazing is how the author presents it.. we all know Harald must have been a strong and influential man to become the legend he is but it’s the ensemble cast in Raven Lord that brings life to that.. it’s the way his men act.. the awe they have when talking about him, it really makes you understand what kind of man Harald must have been to garner the respect of the men who fought with him.
With any book like this it’s all in the detail..What JC Duncan shows is his time and commitment to that detail.. the setting.. the changing landscape of the world..locations, people, small details like food, clothes.. even down to the lines on their faces… everything is designed to put you right there on the bench next to these men.
I’m a fan of history but what I love about the way it’s presented in such a book like this is the added excitement and I loved reading the historical note where you get down to some real nitty gritty and it was fascinating to learn that Harald’s adventures were even documented in some Byzantine works. I never learnt about the The Byzantine Empire in school.. never even heard of them until I started reading books myself and the more I do the more I’m in awe of them.
I’m not going to spoil the events of the book but what I will say is that sometimes the real interesting bits of history are glossed over.. well that’s how I feel anyway… I never had any Idea Harald’s life spanned so much.. how much that man did in his life… You can really start you understand how imposing this man must have been. Harald is known for 1066.. but there’s so much more to the man.. I had an indifference to the man prior to reading this series… but now I think even I would have followed such a man.. wow.
Plot wise I think Harald clearly steals the show.. it’s his tale but credit really does need to go to the author for bringing events to life, to give the reader something they’ve not had before. Throughout I could help but feel the love the author must have for the subject themselves and the time commitment they must have but it in write such a details tale.
JC Duncan stimulates the readers mind.. opens you up to learning and reminds us how fascinating history is!
My thanks go to @rararesources for having me on the tour, as well as the author and publisher for supplying an ARC to aid my review. As usual though… I’ve bought the book too. At £2.99 It’s too good not too!
Why not follow the tour?
Author Bio –
James has a 5 book historical fiction series ‘The Last Viking’ about the extraordinary life of Harald Hardrada being published with Boldwood books starting with ‘Warrior Prince’. When he isn’t writing or doing his full-time engineering job, James is happiest being an amateur bladesmith, forging knives in the shed he built in his garden.
Today is my turn on the blog tour for Thor’s Revenge by Donovan Cook.
Thor’s Revenge is Book 3 in the awesome Charlemagne’s Cross series.
Here’s the blurb
A kingdom without a crown.
A boy forsaken by his God.
A warrior bent on revenge.
After the bloody Battle of Jelling, Denmark’s throne lies empty and chaos reigns as Jarls jostle for power.
Sven survives the bloodshed only to return home to find Ribe sacked by those he trusted and Charles, a pawn in a much bigger political game, kidnapped.
Consumed by the loss of Charles, Sven is shocked by the arrival of the Abbess Hildegard, daughter of his nemesis King Louis of East Francia, who seeks the whereabouts of Charles, her son, and also the cross of Charlemagne.
But whilst others want revenge for the chaos Sven has caused, Denmark burns and Sven must stand in the shield wall one more time if he is to survive and rescue his grandson.
Outnumbered and outmaneuvered, Sven and Charles must put their fate in the hands of the gods if they ever want to see each other again.
Review
We are back with Charles and Sven the Boar..
Sven returns home after a fierce battle.. you’d think surviving a battle is something to celebrate but not this time… many many many men died and Denmark no longer has a King… this has left bands of disbanded and leaderless warriors ransacking Denmark…
And that’s only part of Sven’s trouble… he learned that his grandson Charles has been taken..Charles is Sven’s redemption in life so his loss breaks the man but at least this time he has people around him to try and knock some sense into him.
His anger soon returns when Abbess Hildegard arrives and pushes him a little too far… there’s a blast from the past that I’ll not spoil but by god I felt the fury pouring of Sven… Abbess Hildegard who we learn is Charles mother so we finally get to learn more about why Charles has been brought up to believe she was dead…I could only imagine how this felt for Charles as he learns the truth about himself.. who he really is.
I really enjoyed that we also learned more about the cross that Charles has been carrying ever since his father’s murder.. Charlemagne’s Cross… of which, if the stories are believed has the power to reunite Francia..
What really makes this instalment shine is the character development, not only do we meet and get to know new characters we see some established characters grow, Thora, Rollo and Sven all have a greater depth added to them while they deal with the aftermath of the battle and Charles kidnap.
Charles’ himself has some very big things to deal with.. being kidnapped… the deaths that have occurred to keep him safe.. it becomes his internal struggle and we see his faith in god shaken…
Plot wise… oh wow… it develops at a fast pace but nothing is really rushed or forced…but by god there’s a lot crammed in and credit to the author that it’s been done in such a well balanced way allowing the reader to keep up the events…and the ending!!! Oh my.. I need more!!
The Charlemagne’s Cross series has quick become a firm favourite!
5/5 stars.
To find out more head to Goodreads or why not buy a copy here?
My thanks go to @rararesources for having me on the tour, as well as the author and publisher for supplying an ARC to aid my review. As usual though… I’ve bought the book too. At £2.99 It’s too good not too!
Why not follow the tour?
Author Bio –
Donovan Cook is the author of the well-received Ormstunga Saga series and the Charlemagne’s Cross series, both of which combine fast-paced narrative with meticulously researched history of the Viking world and are inspired by his interest in Norse Mythology. Donovan was born in South Africa but raised in England.
Today I’m taking part in the blog tour for EXSILIUM by Alison Morton!
Screenshot
Keep reading for a little Q&A too! Alison is a firm favourite on my blog so I quite enjoyed coming up with some questions to see what’s next 😊
Here’s the blurb
Exile – Living death to a Roman
AD 395. In a Christian Roman Empire, the penalty for holding true to the traditional gods is execution.
Maelia Mitela, her dead husband condemned as a pagan traitor, leaving her on the brink of ruin, grieves for her son lost to the Christians and is fearful of committing to another man.
Lucius Apulius, ex-military tribune, faithful to the old gods and fixed on his memories of his wife Julia’s homeland of Noricum, will risk everything to protect his children’s future.
Galla Apulia, loyal to her father and only too aware of not being the desired son, is desperate to escape Rome after the humiliation of betrayal by her feckless husband
For all of them, the only way to survive is exile.
Note: EXSILIUM is the sequel to JULIA PRIMA and the two books make up the Foundation strand in the Roma Nova series.
Review
I’m not sure how Alison Morton manages to, but once again the reader is given another powerful read that builds on the fabulous Roma Nova series.
What hit me straight away was the emotion..from the very first page we explore fate..destiny.. so beautifully written but so heart wrenching.
If you’ve read the rest of the series you’ll know about the strong characters and a very plot driven tale, what Exsilium offers the reader is a bit more history.. the beginnings of this fabulous place the author has envisaged, it builds on the humanity of the time and the characters.
The author tackles very real issues such as religious intolerance within the pollical landscape and while set in a different time period you can’t help but see similarities with the world we live in.. there’s a realness to the characters and their depth just pours off the page but in typical style for the author the overall message is positive.. we all deal with the bad side of the world but we need to keep striving for better.. it might not change our world as we know it but we can create positive changes for future generations…that’s what Roma Nova is for me.. a bastion shining in the dark.
I never like to spoil books but what I can say is Exsilium fits is superbly and builds on what is already a strong and established series. To manage to do this.. wow..Morton continues to do justice to the series and the dream of Roma Nova.
5/5 Stars
My thanks to Alison Morton for an ARC to aid my review, I bought a copy too as always 🙂
To find out more or to grab a copy use the links below! Remember keeping read.. 10 questions with Alison Morton is up next!!
Your newest book, EXSILIUM, is book 11 in your amazing Roma Nova series. Did you always envisage the series having such longevity or has the series just developed as time passed?
Good question! I only wanted to write a book. One book. This became INCEPTIO featuring heroine Carina. Then I realised I wanted to know what happened to my characters and so I wrote PERFIDITAS and SUCCESSIO.
Writing SUCCESSIO, which was definitely going to be the last book – it’s fun, but an exhausting business – I became intensely interested in Carina’s grandmother’s earlier life. What part had she played in the Great Rebellion? What was her relationship with the notorious usurper in Roma Nova’s past? So another book was needed – AURELIA. Of course, I had too much story, so two more books emerged full of the rebellion and resistance – INSURRECTIO and RETALIO. I was chuffed when Conn Iggulden endorsed the former and Doug Jackson and Matthew Harffy the latter.
After that, I couldn’t leave it alone and decided to have a crack at writing a novella so dropped CARINA into the first trilogy to recount an adventure between INCEPTIO and PERFIDITAS and NEXUS into the second trilogy between AURELIA and INSURRECTIO. No longer trilogies, I named the four 21st century thrillers as ‘The Carina strand’ and the second four which take place 1960s to 1980s ‘The Aurelia strand’, all with new covers. Talk about making trouble for myself!
The two historical fiction novels – JULIA PRIMA and EXSILIUM – are all the fault of my fans who wanted to know the full origin story of Roma Nova. But I loved writing them!
EXSILIUM starts with a very emotional charged few scenes, did you find this hard to write? I know I felt overwrought after reading those beautifully written words, but it sets the tone so well, strength flows through.
Yes, I felt completely wrung out when I’d finished writing those scenes. But those events are an intrinsic part of the Roma Nova backstory, even since INCEPTIO, so I had to gather up my grit as Carina would say, and write it.
Where do you see the series going now? Are you tempted to choose a different subject matter for your next book?
I don’t know! I do wonder if readers might want something different. I published a book of short stories a few years ago – the two historical novels are a development of one of them – and I might so the same based on some other unpublished stories. I solved the mystery of the disappearance of Carina’s mother in a short story at the back of the INCEPTIO anniversary hardback edition, so I won’t go there again. I may look at the part the Roma Novans played in the Battle of Vienna in 1683, but the research could be enormous. We’ll see!
Have you started on the next book yet? I feel like you clearly put a lot of yourself into your work so can imagine you must have some half-written plots waiting to be fleshed out?
I’ve written the first chapter of the next Mélisende contemporary thriller in the Doubles series as I haven’t finished with her yet. It’s also good to have a complete change of environment.
Like most writers, I use some of my experiences and knowledge from before writing novels and research what I don’t know. And yes, there are a lot of stories in my head especially from my time in the military, but a number of which I can’t tell anybody about…
Some genres can be quite saturated with male authors, did you ever consider writing under a pseudonym?
I did experiment with using initials for my first and middle names with the two Roma Nova boxsets, but it made absolutely no impact either way on sales. My readership is about 40% male and 60% female which I count as good, given that the average of book buyers is reckoned to be over 70% female.
The other problem is having to double up on PR and marketing, especially social media. Maintaining Facebook, X/Twitter, Instagram, Threads and BlueSky plus my monthly newsletter is enough for one me.
What do you feel makes a great story?
Good characters, undoubtedly. A strong plot is essential in any thriller, but the characters must drive the story. If the reader doesn’t root for the characters, cry with them and celebrate with them, even the most clever and twisty plot can fall short. Close behind is setting which includes time period as well as physical setting. What’s happening in that world, what’s the weather like? How do people prosper or even survive? Where does the main threat come from in that place and time?
What is your favourite part of being a writer?
When the characters try to take over the story. It’s uncanny. One other is when I hold a print copy, usually a paperback in my hands for the first time. And a third would be talking about the books or writing at an event. I love sharing the Roman and Roma Nova love!
What’s your favourite under-appreciated book?
What a difficult question! This might sound a strange answer, but Gibbon’s Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire is much quoted and the title has become a public saying, but how many people have actually read it? Academics, possibly serious fiction writers and really dedicated enthusiasts of the Roman Empire. Yet its impact is massive on how we see that civilisation.
What was the most recent book you’ve read yourself that you would recommend?
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus – clever, witty, trenchant. A milestone study through tragi-comedy of America in the 1950 with an acerbic, hugely engaging and sympathetic protagonist. I adored it.
As hard as this might be… how would you sum up the Roma Nova series for anyone who hasn’t yet delved into the world you’ve created.
Suppose, just suppose, history had gone down a slightly different path. What would a 21st century Europe look like if a tiny part of the Ancient Roman Empire had survived?
Roma Nova is that country and embodies a distinct but modern Roman lifestyle in a country led by women and where honour and courage count. Of course, there are traitors, conspirators and criminals – a truly Roman society!
The Roma Nova heroines serve as Praetorian officers, industry leaders, technologists, inventors and senators, with an imperatrix as their ruler.
But its heroines and heroes face conspiracy, revolution and heartache and must use their wits, courage and a sharp line in dialogue to defend their country against all comers. The latest adventure, EXSILIUM, plunges us back to the late 4th century, to the dawn of the foundation of Roma Nova.
Thank you Alison for taking the time to answer some questions for me 🙂
Bio
Alison Morton writes award-winning thrillers featuring tough but compassionate heroines. Her ten-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. The latest, EXSILIUM, plunges us back to the late 4th century, to the very foundation of Roma Nova.
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 now lives in Poitou in France, the home of Mélisende, the heroine of her two contemporary thrillers, Double Identity and Double Pursuit.
Today Is my stop on the blog tour for Conflict and Loyalties by Anna Allen!
Here’s the blurb
FOR THREE YEARS, Gritheim has been torn asunder.
Pestilences ravage the land, and the harvests have failed again, driving up the cost of bread. Emaciated animals are dying. The king becomes less popular each day, and civil war knocks at the palace gates.
The Master is smug.
His immortals recruit nobles and their troops to challenge and depose the king.
Soon, he will be able to step forward and take his rightful place. He needs one more thing—the key to The Book of Realms.
The book will show him how to create spells to help him conquer the land and all its inhabitants.
Two young people thwart his plans.
Even untold riches and immortality won’t tempt them. Leonné, an untrained Elementalist, has married Roland D’Abernon against her will, but Roland hasn’t consummated the marriage yet and, therefore, hasn’t stolen her powers.
Saving her from this atrocity is the knight Fitzsimmons, a great warrior. Rumors suggest his abnormal strength is due to his undeveloped magical powers. The Master must persuade Fitzsimmons to join him or do all he can to destroy him.
This dark fantasy is packed with magic, witchcraft, and swordplay. Become drawn into a world of sorcery in this gripping sequel to Rise of the Immortals.
Review
Conflict and Loyalties is book 2 in The Battle for Gritheim series and picks up where the last book left us. While the flow is great, I’d certainly suggest reading the first book in the series if you haven’t just to understand the character setup.
Fitzsimmons and Leonné’s connection grows as does their powers.. and they are going to need all their skills to defeat the evil forces of The Master.
There’s an influx of new characters which allowed the author the chance to explore scenarios allowing our main two heroes to grow, learn and use those skills.
I particularly liked Fitzsimmons needing to control his emotions.. I won’t spoil why.. but lets just say he’s a different person when he gets angry.
The best thing about the book was the development of the world as you learn more about the kingdoms, who’s who, who supports who.. where strengths and weaknesses lie.. book 1 was all about setting up the characters which is now perfectly balanced with development across the board.
I really enjoyed the growth of Roland too. He’s driven by the desire to become immortal but if he displeases his master then there’s no chance of that happening.
The Master seems to hide in the shadows a lot.. he’s an unknown quantity for the most part but this just added some mystery to everything.. if he’s so strong how long before he makes an appearance?
The author really makes you connect to the characters.. you end up enjoying the good guys.. you hate the bad guys… when a character is frustrated you feel that frustration too!
Overall it’s a great sequel packed to the brim of action and development.. it’s fast paced and goes from 0 to 100 in a blink of an eye. Really fun and enjoyable and perfect for those readers who just want action, action, action.
4/5 Stars.
My thanks go to the author, publisher and Zoé @ zooloosbooktours.co.uk for having me on the tour!
Today might be the last day of the tour but why not check out the other reviews on the stops?
Dawn’s Bio
Dawn Bolton writes romances and crime/romantic suspense under the name of Toni Bolton, fantasy novels under the name of Anna Allen and historical romance/ suspense novels under the name of Alexie Bolton.
Fascinated by history and law she studied both and taught law in higher education. These subjects inspire many of her books.
She lived in a boat while she studied at unviersity and now lives in a pub, she and her husband renovated near the Grand Union Canal with two fluffy Birman vandals. She loves aqua, yoga and Zumba and draws and paints in her spare time.
Her family are psychic and some of their experiences inspired some of her fantasy and paranormal novels. She’s fascinated by the occult and herbal medicine and brings these into her latest dark fantasy novels.
She loves hearing from her readers and getting feedback.
David's Book Blurg 