Category Archives: Book Reviews

Death Row (Alibis collection) by Freida McFadden – REVIEW

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Today I’m reviewing Death Row (Alibis collection) by Freida McFadden.

Here’s the blurb

With all hope of an appeal fading away, the fate of a condemned murderess takes a shocking turn in a breathtaking short story by the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Housemaid.

Talia Kemper is on death row for murdering her husband. She had an alibi and no known motive, yet Talia’s unwavering protestations of innocence have always been ignored. Then one day in the visiting area, she sees a recognizable stranger she’s certain is her husband. It turns out the man she’s been convicted of killing may not be dead after all. But as the days tick away toward Talia’s execution, what will it take for her to be believed?

Review.

Freida McFadden is a name many book readers will have heard of I’m sure. It feels like Freida has been rather prolific since I read “The Housemaid”. I’ll be honest I can’t keep pace ha ha so there’s a few on my TBR list but when I spotted Death Row it seemed exactly what I needed! A quick, exciting read. My concentration levels haven’t been the best of late so just needed a change in pace and something to hook me in.

Well Death Row certainly did that!

Talia is on death row for murder..Talia’s husband the victim. The issue is Talia says she’s innocent!

We learn about Talia’s life, or lack of, on death row and as Talia dreams the reader is transported into Talia’s past.. the run up to where we are now.

The more we find out the less things add up.

It looks like Talia wants to have the perfect life.. like we all do.. and for the most part she’s got it. That is until one day she notices what she’s missing. Her husband.. he’s working too hard.. late nights and not enough emotional connection between the two and this is where things spiral… alone with her thoughts Talia’s imagination runs wild.

Back in present day Talia tries to keep her mind busy but when her latest appeal is rejected she can’t help but loose focus..and that’s when she spots him.. a man who looks just like her husband, and he’s here visiting another inmate.. but it can’t be.. he’s dead.. isn’t he?

This is where the book heats up and no spoilers from me but it’s where I felt there’s little hints to direct the reader throughout that start to add up now, while I felt I knew what was coming.. you really never know when that oomph will be.. it’s the suspense..

When the twist hits its a clever and emotional scene wrapping the story up nicely.

Being billed as a short read at approx. 103 minutes there’s loads packed in. It’s the subtle details added in.. the noises..the smells for example, that really make it come alive and intrigue the reader.

It’s a really great story for fans of the author and the genre but more so this is ideal for newbies too.. plenty to get stuck into and shows you just what to expect from Freida McFadden!

Easy 5* read and what’s even better to know is this is the first in a series of short tales, with each instalment from a different author. Very interested in seeing how this. The rest are already up for pre-order too.

To find out more about Death Row head to Goodreads or Amazon.

The Stone Veil by Keith Nixon – REVIEW

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Today I’m reviewing The Stone Veil by Keith Nixon.

Here’s the blurb

A body entombed in concrete, a missing cop, a bizarre death. Three investigations, one chilling mystery.

When a man’s body is found amidst the wreckage of a crashed car abandoned on a back road, Detective Inspector Solomon Gray initially believes the death to be the result of a tragic accident, the aftermath of a collision with a driver who then fled the scene. But Gray soon unravels a chilling truth: the man died before the collision.

Meanwhile, one of Gray’s colleagues, the usually dependable Desk Sergeant Dai Morgan, has disappeared. Morgan had apparently been on the brink of unraveling a decades-old cold case – the identity of a recently discovered corpse that had been buried under the concrete foundations of a farm building over twenty years ago, a case Gray had a personal connection to.

As Gray delves deeper he finds these mysteries are in fact intertwined and, amidst the darkness, one truth remains clear: someone is determined to keep the past buried at any cost.

Review

The Stone Veil is book 11 in the Solomon Gray series by Keith Nixon. Lets get the tough question out of the way first.. can you read this book as a standalone or do you need to have read the rest of the series… Such a great question. Honestly Keith Nixon is a very conscious writer, each tale is written so well with little bits of info planted not only to help new readers understand the characters and motivations but also to remind fans of the series of pivotal events.. each bit of information takes the reader back and reminds us of what Sol has been through… and he’s not going to get any peace just yet. Personally I’d say read the rest of the series.. well because it’s bloody good but it will also just help you get that little bit more invested in Sol and his life.

Plot wise I felt this one worked beautifully.. there’s a current case that’s landed but not only that but one of Sol’s colleagues is missing… the further we dig further in the past we go…and there’s links to one of Sol’s biggest enemies.. Frank McGavin! Sol can never seem to shake the man no matter what he does.

The dual timeline story worked exactly the way you’d want it..the flow from past to present is flawless for the development, nothing ever needed forced .. it’s hard to explain but as a reader i like to feel like I’m learning something rather than simply being told something.. and it’s that style of storytelling Nixon does best.. he weaves the tale, directing you without you feeling any change in focus.. the development is natural and steady.. oh Mr Nixon you do know how to hook your readers in!

The backstory really sheds light on McGavin and Sol.. it explains more of the history between the two and shows you what kind of guy Sol really is.. we always knew it but to finally have this piece of the story.. wow! I think this was the first time I really loved McGavin.. he’s always been a love/hate kind of person but this time… oh my.. loved him!

Sol has other worries more closer to home during this one and has a knock on affect in his work as much as he doesn’t want to admit it… he tries to just carry on but we soon learn what pieces of the puzzle have been missed..and wowza.. what a storyline.

I really can’t spoil it as it wouldn’t do the series justice but this was a very fitting and fulfilling tale packed with emotion. The plot is clever and gripping…rich in detail but it’s sometimes the words unspoken that speak more in The Stone Veil, you feel the guilt and pain pouring off Sol as he battles his demons.

Character wise this was a clever offering.. not only do we see growth in Sol, we also see more of Mackintosh who showed up in a pervious case.. the issue is him and Sol don’t mix too well yet.. Mackintosh is a very cool character.. but a bit too much for Sol.

My gut tells me it can only get worse for Sol.. the influx of new faces within his life brings freshness to the storyline which is great for the reader but if we’ve learned anything about Sol so far is that he’s not really a people pleaser.

Then there’s Dai Morgan..Dai while missing during this story is probably the one I’d say developed the most. He’s flawed like Sol and it’s kind of like looking at what might have befallen Sol should he have taken a different path…

The Stone Veil has a darker tone from the very first page which you’ll very much understand after reading the author’s note! word of warning.. if you are prone to tears get a tissue ready, it’s a very moving piece. The events in the authors personal life clearly had an effect but he was able to channel that emotion into the tale.. you can feel the pain and as much as I hate to say it…it really added something extra to the tale.. we see Solomon struggle.. and I mean really struggle.. you might be lucky and have never felt this way but I can almost guarantee you at some point you will feel this powerless..

An emotional 5*…While doing my review I read the authors note again and it’s still hits hard!

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon!

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

King of Wessex (Alfred the Great Book 3) by Steven A. McKay.

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For anyone who follows my socials you’ll know I’ve been a little quiet review wise as I’m been Ill for what feels like forever!! I’m pretty much back at 100% now and ready to share some reviews.

First up for review is King of Wessex by Steven A. McKay. book 3 in the Alfred the Great series.

Here’s the blub

His reign must come to an end. But his legacy will live on forever.

After thwarting the scourge of the Viking hordes that had decimated Britain for decades, King Alfred assured a period of peace and prosperity for the kingdom of Wessex. The dream of uniting all Anglo-Saxons under one, noble banner seems closer than ever before.

But his enemies are not ones to be taken lightly. For even as Alfred works to ensure the fate of his descendants for centuries to come, a fearsome warlord, Haesten, gathers his warriors for a brutal assault upon the shores of Alfred’s territories.

As the battle lines are drawn, as the true power of this new and terrifying threat comes into its own, the ageing king knows in his heart that things will be different this time round. For as strong as his land, his birthright, his Wessex, has become, the consequences of defeat have never been more terrible.

For one who has gained everything… has everything to lose.

Review

At the start of the book we see a monk attacked and the culprits tracked down.. what this gave me as the reader was two things.. You see the tide is pushing against Alfred.. his position is anything but safe… and two.. it showed me the glimpse of the author that I felt perhaps a little subdued in the past two offerings.. don’t get me wrong.. each book has knocked the ball out the park but being heavily constrained to Alfred’s tale it doesn’t leave wiggle room and as a massive fan of the author you get to know the style..the bits of a tale when you really see the author have a bit of fun when they get the freedom to add their own edge and for me this was it.. it just felt like this was going to be the best offering yet from the off.

Alfred has a dream, the dream of uniting all Anglo-Saxons under one banner.. you learn more of his devotion to God but also to his people.. the basic things he wished for everyone and his battle to make these dreams come true.

One of the issues Alfred will face is while there’s been some peace it was never going to last was it?

A Viking named Haesten is back to cause Alfred more pain. Alfred and his army have the not so enviable mission to withstand this Viking invasion!! They have to keep Wessex free from Danes if Alfred’s dreams are to come to fruition.

While the plot is fascinating and exciting to read what really got my juices flowing is the character development, you can almost see the cogs turning in Alfred’s head as he formulates his next move, like a chess board.

Yeah yeah.. plots super important but if you don’t understand the characters why bother.. you need the right mix and McKay certain has the recipe down to a tee.

I feel tackling such a man as King Alfred could be seen as a risk, it’s a very defined set of events so to see the author manage to add their own energy, style and quite simply fun to a tale was great. It’s the character ARCs that really stand out and where the focus always was for me and it’s what made the book standout.

King of Wessex was a bittersweet 5* read.. I knew the series was coming to an end.. but by now I’m fully invested.. I didn’t want to say goodbye to this one.

Sad to see it end but mightily fulfilled.

For the authors own development I see this as showing the world how serious you should take his work and it’s about time you all listen! 🙂

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon.

If you want to know more about the author has his other works take a look here – https://stevenamckay.com/

BLOG TOUR – The Cornish Witch by Elena Collins

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for The Cornish Witch by Judy Leigh, writing under Elena Collins.

Here’s the blurb.

Now: When Megan’s father gets a letter containing a secret from the past, he asks her to go to the Cornish village of St Mawgen Cove to get to the bottom of the mystery. Megan is happy to take a holiday after a challenging year but as soon as she checks into The Ship Inn something feels amiss. There are noises in the room above, the locals tell tales of smugglers and shipwrecks and she can’t escape the story of the witch who waits and watches, weeping on the top of the cliff.

1625: Susanna and her daughter Katel live a contented life, but without the protection of a husband and father, Susanna fears for Katel’s future as she blossoms into womanhood. The fishing community of St Mawgen Cove is close knit but when misfortune arrives in the cove, it’s not long before villagers are looking for someone to blame. And when talk turns to witches, Susanna knows she and Katel are no longer safe.

Can Megan bring peace to St Mawgen and to two women who have been broken-hearted for centuries?

Review

So this is my second foray into the works of Judy Leigh writing as Elena Collins. I had high hopes after reading The Witch’s Tree.

The story is a dual timeline historical mystery and starts off strong with a very gripping opening scene….A spirit who preys on lone men offering only the kiss of death.

Soon we meet Megan.. Ah Megan.. and what a setup. The author gave me exactly what I was hoping for… it’s the depth and build up. Megan hasn’t had it easy.. she’s had her heart broken and has been kind of floating since.. she focuses on others rather than herself and this theme continues when her dad receives a letter that will rock the family.. a hidden secret. As any good daughter would do she sets out to help her dad get through this and this means travelling to St Mawgen Cove to meet this person from her dads past.

She chooses The Ship Inn for her stay.. the alarm bells don’t go off at first but there’s signs something isn’t quite right.

Moving to the second timeline we are back in 1625 and meet Katel. Katel is a young girl who is perhaps a little naive.. her mother is not so and can see the danger her daughter could be in.

Katel is quite independent and is now looking to her future.. but will her choice of company put her in danger?

The story manage to blend a mix of history, mystery and intrigue and is a masterclass in the art of the build up. Don’t get me wrong.. the pace is perfect but the author has a way of telling a story without the need for words at times.. it’s the character development.. the unwritten words and the how it makes you feel as a reader.

The author manages to work the dual timelines perfectly, neither overshadows or is given more time than needed but the style just added more depth to the plot, the suspense.. the fear of the unknown.. even from 2 chapters in I was worried for both Katel and Megan and the fates that may befall them. For me the future setting was more enthralling as we see Megan investigate this eerie village .. I felt the character needed this.. needed something for herself and the character develops well throughout.

Looking at the past and Katel tale is certainly more moving and emotional, you feel for the girl…and her mother.

Add in a healthy dose of the unknown, witches, ghosts, fear and injustice wow.. what a story.

The supernatural side of the tale really worked well..I won’t spoil it but the ghost of a woman who weeps at night for her heart broken and the drenched man, who will never rest because he was drowned at sea..I mean this alone had my interested peaked and hooked me in.

The setting has to be mentioned too. I’m not familiar with Cornwall myself having never been but the author paints vivid images and makes you want to visit yourself.. although maybe avoid anywhere called or similar too The Ship Inn ha.

The story is well rounded..plot, setting, characters all develop nicely and you can just tell there’s been a lot of time and energy put into the story from the author which has certainly paid off! A thrilling and emotional 5* read.

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour in exchange for my honest review. I may have received a copy of the book to aid my review but I bought a copy too.. it’s worth it.

Interested yet? Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/TheCornishWitch

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio –

Leigh writes dual timeline stories under the name of Elena Collins: the name is a tribute to her grandmother who was a teller of stories and fortunes, and she had healing hands.

These novels combine three of her passions: delving into rich historical tales, exploring stunning locations, and evoking the supernatural. They weave together stories of people’s lives both past and present, with some spine-tingling moments along the way. She loves writing these novels and hopes readers enjoy them as much as she does. The characters and settings are particularly close to her heart.

Writing under the name of Judy Leigh, she is also the author of uplifting novels that explore the lives of older women and the possibilities of second chances, change, and happiness. Under this name, she writes the Morwenna Mutton/Seal Bay cozy crime series, set in Cornwall, featuring a sixty-something sleuth who enjoys solving crimes and getting into mischief.

Outside of writing, Leigh enjoys traveling, reading, music, and theatre. She holds an MA in Professional Writing. When she’s not at her desk or spending time with her two black cats, she’s often researching her next novel in some of the country’s most beautiful locations and beyond.

Social Media Links

Facebook: @judyleighuk

Twitter: @JudyLeighWriter

Instagram: @judyrleigh

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

Bookbub profile:@elenacollins

BLOG TOUR – Men Of Iron by MJ Porter – Review.

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Men of Iron by the awesome MJ Porter!

Here’s the blurb

After the legends of Arthur, yet before the Saxon kingdom of Mercia, a tribal age of iron and rust ruled.

Britain AD540.

In the western hinterland of Roman Britannia, Meddi, the seeress of the Eorlingas tribe, can only obtain vengeance when her husband’s dead and her ancestral villa returned to her.

With her brother, Madog, as leader, they unite and stand strong against those who seek the riches of their villa. They must harness the power of the lost magiks of iron to make weapons to mercilessly oppose those who seek to challenge and fight to rule.

Meanwhile in the east, Waermund, a young warrior of Saxon descent, has exacted the ultimate revenge against his brother. Startled by his own ruthlessness, he knows his father will pursue him to exact retribution. He and his band of miscreant warriors must flee westwards and forge a new future by earning coin from those too weak to protect themselves.

Meddi and Wærmund are set to collide in a world of iron and rust.

Review

I’m a little biased these days as I’m a massive fan of the author so you can imagine my excitement at the idea of a brand new series! 

Men of Iron is book 1 in the Dark Age Chronicles and perfectly shows the reader why MJ Porter is one of the best historical writers out there. MJ knows how to weave a tale. MJ picks history apart and seems to effortlessly know where a story can be found.

I know it won’t be as easy as that.. but MJ Porter makes it seem so simple and that in itself tells you how good the story is. 

The main story focuses on a number of tribes and individuals as they face their own challenges of survival… each want what they believe is rightly there’s… if they manage to succeed can they keep a hold of it?

MJ Porter doesn’t do things small… the pace is spot on but you are introduced and thrown in the deep end with alot of information but i really loved how the pace suited the influx of characters and development, you had time take the key information and with the focus switching between tribes as the story unfolds it just helped me focus.

Men Of Iron isnt a tale to be rushed, its rich in detail and action and i love the authors talent at adapting to any style or era. 

Theres plenty for the action fans to get to grips with but at the same time the plot takes priority over all and i feel it worked well, this one is more about the chracters than action. Loved it.

My favourites in this tale were Heafoc and Bucge, they had a dark wit about them which i just loved.

MJ Porter for me is unique and as such each offering never fails to hit the mark. 5* start of me.. plenty to love and plenty of promise for the next in the series. 

My thanks go to the author, publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for having me on the tour… no freebies for me.. check my socials and you’ll see i purchased a signed copy direct from MJ Porter… I’d be mad not too ha.

Interested? Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/menofiron

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio – 

MJ Porter is the author of over fifty fiction titles set in Saxon England and the era before the tumultuous events of 1066. Raised in the shadow of a strange little building and told from a young age that it housed the long-dead bones of Saxon kings, it’s little wonder that the study of the era was undertaken at both undergraduate and graduate levels. 

MJ Porter has written a collection of interconnected fiction series focusing on the Saxon kingdom of Mercia and books set in the newly formed ‘England.’ 

MJ Porter is published by Boldwood Books for The Dark Ages Series, The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles and The Brunanburh Series.

MJ Porter has also written three 20th-century mysteries and historical fantasy. 

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @MJPorterauthor

Twitter: @coloursofunison

Instagram: @m_j_porter

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

Bookbub profile: @coloursofunison

BLOG TOUR – Enemies of the Crown by Peter Gibbons

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Enemies of the Crown by Peter Gibbons.

Here’s the blurb.

A weakened crown. A country besieged by Vikings, suffering under the oppression of a powerful church.

994AD

King Aethelred the Unready’s rule falters. Policies recommended by the controlling bishops invite more attacks upon his Saxon kingdom as Sweyn Forkbeard, Viking battle-king of the Danes, grows in power; bloodthirsty for conquest.

Beornoth, Viking-killer and kings thegn believed his days in the shield wall to be over until summoned by the king to enforce a policy of retribution against his enemies.

In a time of shifting loyalties, alongside a savage warband of cruel Norman warriors, Beornoth embarks upon a brutal quest to rid England of King Aethelred’s so-called Viking enemies.

However, when this murderous campaign leads to the door of an old friend, Beornoth must choose sides, as his loyalty to king, country, and his brothers of the sword are put to the test.

Can Beornoth triumph over insurmountable odds in this shield splintering battle for the future of England itself?

Review

Are we really up to book 5 in the series? Really.. it doesn’t feel like it.. there’s been so much that’s happened but everything feels so fresh and new still.. so much it’s hard to believe how far the series has come.. wow.

The battle of Maldon is over but King Aethelred reign is not secured…there’s increased raids from the Vikings.. some see this as what it is.. opportunistic aa=nd it can only get worse.. but many see this as the King losing Gods favour..

If anything the policies play a part in inviting some blood-thirsty foes to his very door.. Sweyn Forkbeard and Thorkell the Tall. These two are fascinating characters.. and not to spoil but they arent going to be easy to kill..

Beornoth thought his days with sword and shield in hand were behind him but the King needs his hand once more!

Beornoth sets out to crush the Viking threat.. the issue is he’s not alone..the king has decided in his wisdom to employ a band of ruthless Norman mercenaries! This can’t end well.

It’s not at simple as that either.. there’s more going on than Beornoth can see at first..which leads to the ultimate test… I really don’t want to spoil it but there’s so much depth behind the tests Beornoth faces.. you can’t really see a way for him to get out of this mess,

Peter Gibbons is a fantastic author, not only are the battles bloody and gory like any fan would want but there’s depth and emotion added.. you feel the need to pick up sword through the page.. it’s so vivid and emotive in it’s descriptiveness.

The Saxon Warrior series is a masterclass in storytelling and I was so glad to see there’s more to come. Each story has it’s own clear part to play in the series.. no messing around padding things out.. there’s direction and growth throughout each tale. I never know where Gibbon’s will take me when I pick up his one of his books but I always know it’s going to be good and Enemies of the Crown is the jewel of the series so far cementing Beornoth as someone I’ll never forget!

Shield smashing 5*

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

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

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, the Saxon Warrior series, and the Chronicles of Arthur.

Social Media Links –

Facebook: @PeterGibbonsAuthor

Twitter: @AuthorGibbons

Instagram: @PeterMGibbons

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

Bookbub profile:@petermgibbons1

You Know The Drill: The Private Musings of a Dentist by Dr Bill – REVIEW

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Today is publication day for You Know The Drill: The Private Musings of a Dentist by Dr Bill! What better way to celebrate than to share a review!

Here’s the blurb

Welcome to my life.  The life of a reluctant dentist.  This book charts the course of a nervous student dealing with people from all walks of life, from exploding angry abscesses to exploding angry people, both in and out of the chair.

When I was a wet-behind-the-ears school sixth former, it seemed like a really good idea to go to university and study the teeth, gums and mouth.  I’m still trying to work out why I thought that was a good idea.

The definition of a dentist mentions competencies in biomedical knowledge, surgical dexterity, and critical thinking. What it fails to include is being an unpaid therapist, getting splattered in pus, coaxing nutters out from under the dental chair, having the police storm your surgery, and dealing with patients who think a crown is something you put on your head, then try and sue you when you say otherwise.

Written as a form of therapy – to offload on paper – this book gives a frank account of life both in and out of the surgery.  So, take a seat in the waiting room and I’ll see you shortly in Chapter One…

Review

Over the last few years I’ve really enjoyed this type of book, where professionals share with us readers an insight into their professions.. I did wonder what could You Know The Drill could offer to make it stand out from the crowd..

Well, the answer is Dr Bill! It’s the witty humour .. the honesty.. it felt like this could be one of those chats you have with a close friend down the local pub where you end up reminiscing for hours but have so much fun!

I felt the tone of the book was perfect, it’s raw and honest.. doesn’t sugarcoat anything but at the same type it can be light-hearted and extremely funny.

You can tell Dr Bill has worked with many patients over the years and it amazed me how easily those individuals were brought to life.. dealing with complaints for example.. Dr Bill made those moments pop! You felt the emotion. Felt nervous and scared for Dr Bill… and you hated those bloody patients too ha.

Also what stands out is the time given to talk about working during the Covid-19 pandemic. It feels like so long ago now and I think we all just forget how it affected other people as we concentrated on self-preservation.

The book is well balanced and there’s a dry wit/charm throughout which just made it a fun read from the first page to the last. There’s highs and lows, ups and downs but you feel the positivity that pours through from Dr Bill.

I really found it refreshing, the honestly used when discussing finances and the pressures dentists are under..these services are things we just take for granted but maybe you’ll see things a little differently now after reading the book? I know I never thought the journey to be a dentist could be so..so.. colourful..

You Know The Drill is a great addition to the genre.

5/5 stars

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

Tempted? – Here the link to purchase a copy!

https://bookgoodies.com/a/B0DTQYKQ4V

Author Bio:

Dr Bill is a reluctant dentist who lives with his kind partner and a neurotic cat.  This is his first book.  There may be another.  This depends on whether Dr Bill’s patients are gracious sweethearts who give him nothing to write about, or cantankerous bastards who provide the fodder for written revenge!

BLOG TOUR – Woden’s Spear by Donovan Cook – REVIEW

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Today is publication day for Woden’s Spear by Donovan Cook! What better way to celebrate than for me to kick off the blog tour!!!!

Here’s the blurb.

Banished by those he loved; how far would he go for redemption?

449AD Old Saxony

Octa, the son of a mighty Saxon warlord, stands in the shield wall for the first time, eager to make a name for himself. But instead of the promised battle glory, fear overpowers him and he flees the battle, causing the death of his cousin and bringing shame to his family.

Disowned by his father, and hunted by his own people, Octa is spurred on by his mother’s vision for his future, a promise of greatness to come.

A chance encounter with a wiry traveller offers Octa a chance of redemption with a quest to retrieve a sacred weapon. To do this, Octa must travel to Britannia, a nation abandoned by the Roman Empire and unable to defend itself from its many enemies who smell weakness and riches.

Joining the famous warlords, Hengist and Horsa, Octa travels west to forge his future and redeem his past. He must succeed where others have failed. He must find the lost spear of Woden.

An epic adventure of turmoil, coming of age and survival set against a time when Britannia was on its knees and fighting for its very existence.
Perfect for the fans of Bernard Cornwell and Matthew Harffy.

Review

Octa is young and untested in war. He’s got a bit of swagger about him, especially when he’s given the chance to shine in the shield wall.

Fate has other things in store for Octa and after the death of his cousin, bringing shame on himself and his family he fleas to safety.

As Octa tries to escape his past an old man appears and offers a chance to redeem himself. Woden’s Spear was stolen, and the God wants it back… Could Octa be the one to help?

By chance Octa finds his way to Britannia where the spear is located but Octa doesn’t exactly know where to find it.. but he must if he’s to win back the favour of his family.

Along the way Octa is tested.. he truly believes he’s a coward, self-deprecating..but as the story progresses you see him slowly change as he meets new people along the way, see’s other perspectives.. was it really his fault what happened? Or was he pushed too soon?

We also learn that nothing happens by chance.. Octa was meant to be sent on this journey.. the Gods can be cruel and the decisions he makes could have major consequences… but the chance to get his hands on the spear is too hard not to take!

Historical Fiction is my bread and butter.. I love the genre and Woden’s Spear is a great addition… but it’s so much more than that…Dovovan Cook gives an extra dimension.. it’s the fantasy edge.

A lot of books touch on religions at the time and the turmoil caused but I loved that the author explored this in a different way and came up with a fascinating tale that included the will of the Gods… like the Gods were real and pulling the strings of men they use as puppets…

There’s still some great action scenes but I found myself really enjoying the adventure and didn’t miss the blood and gore.

I loved the character development arc of Octa too.. he grows throughout the tale but only with the help others.. and it’s those characters that really make things interesting. Badulf, Brigid and for me especially Reinald who I thought was the one who finally got through to Octa and made he see things in a different light.

Towards the end we also see development of Octa’s family which I loved, Octa’s father for example is a proud warrior.. when pushed too far what will he do for his family?

I was invested already but when I got about 65% through I was devastated to even need a toilet break as things were starting to get really juicy and it was one of those reads when you really don’t know what will happen next!

A super fun and exhilarating read 5*

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

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

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, where his fascination with Medieval History, especially the Vikings and Norse Mythology, took root. In his free time, Donovan loves to read, watch rugby, and go for walks with his wife and their French Bulldog, Joey.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @DonovanCookAuthor

Twitter: @DonovanCook20

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

Becky Lynch: The Man: Not Your Average Average Girl by Rebecca Quin – REVIEW

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Today I’m reviewing Becky Lynch: The Man: Not Your Average Average Girl by Rebecca Quin.

Here’s the blurb.

By age seven, Rebecca Quin, now known in the ring as Becky Lynch, was already defying what the world expected of her.

Raised in Dublin, Ireland in a devoutly Catholic family, Rebecca constantly invented new ways to make her mother worry – roughhousing with the neighbourhood kids, getting older and hosting secret parties while her parents were away, enrolling in a warehouse wrestling school, nearly breaking her neck and almost kneecapping a WWE star before her own wrestling career even began – and she was always in search of a thrilling escape from the ordinary.

Rebecca’s deep love of wrestling as a child set her on an unlikely path. With few female athletes to look to for guidance, Rebecca pursued a wrestling career hoping to change the culture and move away from the antiquated disrespect so often shown directed at the elite female athletes that grace the ring. Even as a teenager, she knew that she would stop at nothing to earn a space among the greatest wrestlers of our time, and to pave a new path for female fighters.

Culled from decades of journal entries and containing treasured family photos, Rebecca’s memoir offers a raw, personal, and honest depiction of the complex woman behind the character Rebecca Quin plays on TV, and a fascinating insight into the world of professional wrestling.

Review

Yes I’m a bit of a wrestling fan I must admit, call it fake all you want but I know my body couldn’t do what those guys do and boy do they sell it well! Ha

Once in a while a character will come along that immediately you like.. or sometimes dislike.. those that stay with you no matter what they do or how time passes.. Stone Cold for example will always be my ultimate.. then there’s Becky Lynch!

I grew up in the Diva days when wrestling for the women was more about how they looked rather than what they could do in the ring.. they didn’t get a real push or the screen time.. if I’m honest it felt like they were objects not people, but you could sense a change coming and it’s people like Rebecca Quin who helped change the way we look at women’s wresting.

I love real stories.. I love the relatable moods and emotions,  and The Man: Not Your Average Average Girl hits all the right notes.

There’s some massive high moments.. main eventing..pushing boundaries..love.but there’s also the horrendous lows.. dealing with life’s stresses, eating disorders and failure… it’s the realness we don’t see on screen.. we see the image they want us to see but there’s that doesn’t even scratch the surface.

I know Becky is just a character but what I always loved about seeing her on screen is it instantly felt real and it’s a talent to put realness into the performance and what The Man: Not Your Average Average Girl shows us it that Rebecca Quin put the same energy into her own life, facing every challenge put in her way.

I really enjoyed learning the errors Rebecca made along the way too.. like we all do.. it’s part of growing up.. the realness just helps you become more invested in the tale.. more invested in the character.

The Man: Not Your Average Average Girl is a wild ride of highs and lows, it’s raw and real and mirrors the feelings we all have in life.. although in rather different circumstance.

We know Becky made her way to the top of WWE but you that didn’t stop you rooting for Rebecca Quin from the first page to the last.

Interesting and insightful read!

5*

To find out more head for Goodreads or Amazon.