Tag Archives: Bookaholic

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/

The Ark by Christopher Coates

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Today I’m going to be reviewing The Ark by Christopher Coates

Here’s the blurb

The Earth as we know it is about to end.

Technology has developed to the point where a person can be placed in a Sleep State: a cross between suspended animation and a drug-induced coma.

Just as the trial of the new technology is being completed, an unusual comet is discovered approaching Earth, bringing with it radiation that will wipe out all life on the planet. Soon after, the government builds a sleeper facility to save humankind from extinction, taking drastic steps to maintain secrecy of the project.

But when the sleepers awaken, they discover that something has gone terribly wrong… and that the strange world around them is not the one they fell asleep in.

Review

I picked up The Ark as I was fancying something a little different to my normal choice of book. The synopsis stood out as it made me think a little of Deep Impact and Armageddon.. but the focus is changed from trying to save the world to figuring out how to rebuild after the event.

There’s a comet on it’s way by Earth.. it won’t hit, but radiation is detected that will change the landscape of the planet forever.

The government have a few options open to them but the most promising is a new technology. This new technology has the ability to put an individual to sleep, slow the body’s natural processes.. essentially they will be in suspended animation.. The issue is the technology hasn’t be perfected yet for a scale such as this and the government is need to find a suitable location under the extreme pressure of knowing they can only save a very small percentage of the population.

It’s a battle to keep the truth a secret.. if the news were to get out the whole world would panic and it’s likely no one would survive.. there would be riots.. death and destruction and that’s even before the comet passes.

In the run up to the event a few people do come a little close to the truth and the author explores the power and reach of those in charge as silence reigns..

Those chosen for the sleeper program each have skills but learn further skills to better set them up to rebuild after the event.. estimates show they will be asleep for around 20 years.. it’s a lot for those people to take in but they know they are the last ditch attempt at survival and if they are lucky it’s all one big error and they will all be able to go home soon..

At the same time the government put plans in place to build underground shelters.. it’s not going to protect many but at least some will have the chance to live in the hope that these “sleepers” will wake up and will help rebuild the world.

When the sleepers awake there’s a big problem… things haven’t gone to plan.. it’s not been 20 years…the radiation was much stronger than first thought… those in underground shelters only had a certain amount of supplies… did anyone survive? Do the sleepers have anyone to rebuild the world for?

I really enjoyed the plot and I loved the focus on the sleepers, the preparation needed.. the sacrifices made. All the preparation time really helped the development of the characters and I really found myself like liking the team and was investing in their survival, the pace also help set the mood well..you feel the nervous energy pouring off the page.

I also found how the author tackled the question about communication, and how they would keep the threat a secret very well thought out and plausible. I wouldn’t want to be in charge if there was a global threat on the way.

There’s a clear direction for the ply but the author still manages to add some twists and turns along the way.. like you know it’s not going to all go to plan… technology.. nothings ever easy.. but the twists are exciting and add an extra punch to the story.

I was very much sucked into this one.. so much so as soon as I finished I was checking in the hopes this might be a series.. I don’t do much research before picking up a book so was a little deflated at first.. The Ark is not part of a series… well actually it kind of is…while it’s not a series you can imagine my excitement to learn there’s a parallel story.. The Anvil… we see events from the viewpoint of those lucky enough to be brought into the underground shelters.. do they survive..and at what cost? I’ve already finished it and I’ve only good things to say… look out for that review coming too!

4/5 Stars

To find our more head to Amazon or Goodreads

THE ANGEL FALLS (Ryan Jarrod series Book 1) by Colin Youngman – REVIEW

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Today I’m going to be reviewing THE ANGEL FALLS (Ryan Jarrod series Book 1) by Colin Youngman!

Credit to my wife for this one, she highlighted the author is a local and I’ve been really enjoying tales set In/near my local area lately..Who knew we had such a good author hidden within Ashington!

Here’s the blurb

Six weeks. Just forty-two short days. That’s all it takes to rip the heart out of a city and change the lives of those who live there. Forever. One such life belongs to Ryan Jarrod. In the early hours of a wet winter’s morning on Tyneside, Ryan Jarrod approaches the end of his second shift as a Special Constable when he stumbles across the body of a savagely beaten Teddy McGuffie, a down-at-heel taxi driver. On the same night, an explosion rips through the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne’s student community. Casualties are high; the city brought to a standstill. And the University blast is only the beginning of a bloody reign of terror which threatens the very fabric of the region. With the McGuffie case shelved, Ryan vows to investigate it himself. When he uncovers links between the assault on McGuffie and a series of letters which seem to foretell the terror attacks, members of the force ridicule his theories. Except for one man: DCI Stephen Danskin. Danskin sees a lot of himself in the young Special. He breaks protocol. Invites Jarrod into the case. Together, they dive deeper into the tangled lives of those associated with the letters – and lay a trap to lure the killer to one of the region’s most iconic landmarks: The Angel of the North. What could possibly go wrong?

Review

Ryan Jarrod is a Special Constable who stumbles upon a badly beating man.. there’s real rage behind the attack and although Jarrod is only a Special Constable right now he has dreams to become so much more.. could this be his big break?

The really good thing about Jarrod from the off is that he’s selfless.. he’s just wants to bring bad people to justice… he doesn’t have an ego.

On the same night there’s a terrible explosion… but it’s only the first in a series of attacks that will rock those living in Newcastle and the surrounding area.

A local online news outlet dubs the bomber The Tyneside Tyrant.

While the police focus on the bombing Jarrod can’t move past the savage beating of Teddy McGuffie and it’s while he’s visiting his grandma that he starts to see a pattern to the attacks and a link to the McGuffie beating is found.

This Is where Detective Chief Inspector Danskin comes in.. he’s leading the investigation and sees potential in keeping Ryan Jarrod around. Jarrod sees what others don’t.. he’s young and has a lot to learn but it’s also clear he’s got what it takes.

As usual no spoilers from me but there’s twists and turns, and even when you think the case is solved there’s more headed our way.. wow.

I particularly loved the plot and how this is a perfect introduction to Ryan Jarrod…it’s teasing the future as he’s kind of a bystander at times but wow.. what a introduction.

Being based in my local area I found the tale even more fascinating.. reading scenes set in Newbiggin for example just gave me a real buzz.

There’s a tonne of characters each packed with their own development, everything all flowed well, nothing forced or out of place just a full on intriguing plot.

Great start to a series so I’m looking forward reading more soon!.

5/5 Stars

To find our more head to Amazon or Goodreads

Tense Commandment by Frank Westworth – Review

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Today I’m reviewing Tense Commandment by Frank Westworth. The Stoner Series Book 10.

Here’s the blurb.

Unconventional assassin JJ Stoner knows better than to accept a personal job from his violently volatile boss. But if your paymaster stalks the hallowed halls of Westminster, and if your girlfriend sells her body to a sordid clientele, and if you kill people for a living, well… sometimes you have to get your hands dirty.
Very dirty.

A witty mix of hardboiled humour and sinister manipulation. Recommended for readers who enjoy Walter Mosley, Derek Raymond and Don Winslow.

Tense Commandment is a self-contained short story which features characters from the Killing Sisters crime-thriller novels and the Stoner stories. It follows Nine Lies and introduces key characters from A Last Act Of Charity (and takes place quite a while before Charles III ascended, in case you were wondering). With an agile imagination, Tense Commandment can be enjoyed as a stand-alone story without reading the other books. Live dangerously!

Review

JJ Stoner has a special place in my heart I must admit. Tense Commandment is the tenth short story focusing on the events surrounding the witty assassin.

You can quite easily read the series as standalones but I very much believe the dark humour comes through so much clearer if you read them all.. It’s been a while since we’ve seen stoner but from the first page the smile was back on my face.. oh how I’ve missed him.

In this instalment we see the needs of Stoners employer and his more personal life clash a little. The Hardman has a target…but there’s an issue…Stoner isn’t the first to get there..

In typical Stoner style the fun, thought-provoking plot hits quick as we, along with Stoner try and figure out who is behind events and what does this mean for Stoner.. is someone setting him up? Are they after his girlfriend… or is it his employer whose being targeted? And how does he get out of this one with his arse intact?

It was great to see the character Stretch back in the action also… they are very much unconventional friends but boy they like to have some fun!

For fans of the series, it really is the best yet and just adds more depth to Stoner.

I’m not going to spoil the twists and turns but the ending did not disappoint at all.. and we are lucky enough to be given an extra short tale from the author. The short is called “AI”. I’m really not going to say much other than WOW. Westworth has only ever been known to me for one reason.. JJ Stoner.. AI just shows what skills the author really has at being able to take on another subject matter.. Westworth is the King of the short story!

5/5 Stars

To find our more head to Goodreads or Amazon!

BLOG TOUR – Protector of Mercia by M. J. Porter

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Today is my stop on the blog tour for Protector of Mercia by M. J. Porter!

Here’s the blurb.

A deathbed oath leaves the lives of two infants hanging in the balance.

Tamworth AD833 After successfully rescuing her husband from the Island of Sheppey, Icel hears the deathbed confession of Lady Cynehild which leaves him questioning what he knows about his past, as well as his future.

In the unenviable position of being oath sworn to protect their two atheling sons when Lord Coenwulf is punished and banished for his treason against the Mercian ruler, King Wiglaf, Icel is once more torn between his oaths and the secret he knows.

When the two children are kidnapped, Icel, good to his word, and fearing for their safety, pursues their abductors into the dangerous Northern lands, fearing to discover who is behind the audacious attempt on their lives: the queen, the king’s son, or even Lady Ælflæd, a friend to him in the past, but now wed to the king’s son and aunt to the two abandoned children.

Alone in the Northern lands, Icel finds himself facing his worse fears. Can he rescue the children from their captor, or will he fail and lose his life in the process?

Review

Protector of Mercia is book 5 in The Eagle of Mercia Chronicles. The 1st book in the series was published less than 2 years ago but in this time, there’s been so much growth and development I can hardly believe it’s the 5th instalment already!

If you haven’t read the previous instalments I do recommend it but the author has the knack for explaining things as they go nicely so new readers would understand some of the background.. but most definitely do read the others in the series.. they are too good not to read!

We are back with Icel, and he now knows the truth about who is father really is….and that he himself has a claim to the throne. But it’s a throne he doesn’t want.

After the death of Lady Cynehild Icel promised to protect her children.. It might have been a last ditch selfish act from Lady Cynehild but never the less she was right to fear for them. Soon after their father is exiled the boys go missing and Icel has to figure out who took them and where they have been taken….right now the why doesn’t matter…but something just isnt sitting right..if you want these children out of the way why not just kill them?

Protector of Mercia is all about the tension..a tale of a manhunt as Icel uses all his skill and knowledge to find the children.. to keep them safe.. the main issue is who can he trust??

This instalment, like the previous ones is full of action but what I loved about this one more was the pace, it’s a harrowing journey and the author effortlessly puts you in Icel’s position.. the urgency.. the feeling of desperation.. the weariness of the journey.. the pace perfectly matched so you can actually feel how tired Icel must be.

I feel like Icel at times lost sight of everything else other then would the children survive but he needs to find out why they were taken and by whom..but it’s not going to be easy and the journey is taking him further and further away from safety.

Something I really love about this series is the authors knack of transporting you back to events that happened in a previous novel with only a few words, credit to the author that at the mention of Icel’s uncle my mind is instantly flooded with memories from book 1 in the series..This certainly is a series that will stay with you.

Overall this has to be my favourite instalment so far.. its’ one mans tale.. his feelings.. his desperation and desire not to fail. I couldn’t put it down! 5/5 stars.

My thanks go to MJ Porter, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing a copy of this ebook in return for my honest review, and to Rachel from http://www.rachelsrandomresources.com  for having me on the blog tour! I can honestly say I’ve ordered a kindle copy myself and the paperback will be soon to join my collection too!!!!

Why not follow the tour?

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

Author Bio –

MJ Porter is the author of many historical novels set predominantly in Seventh to Eleventh-Century England, and in Viking Age Denmark. They were raised in the shadow of a building that they believed housed the bones of long-dead Kings of Mercia – so their writing destiny was set.

Social Media Links –  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/coloursofunison

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

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

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig – Review

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Today I’m reviewing The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Here’s the blurb

Nora’s life has been going from bad to worse. Then at the stroke of midnight on her last day on earth she finds herself transported to a library. There she is given the chance to undo her regrets and try out each of the other lives she might have lived. Which raises the ultimate question: with infinite choices, what is the best way to live?

Review

I don’t think I’ve read anything more beautifully poignant than The Midnight Library.

The tale follows Nora as her life hits rock bottom.. she’s lost her job and her cat… that’s everything she held close.. not to mention her relationships are at an all time low…. She feels like her life is a failure. Just as she’s about to spend her last moments on Earth she finds herself transported to The Midnight Library.

In this library you get the chance to live the versions of your life you may have lived if you made different decisions. Nora gets the chance to undo her list of regrets.. she gets another chance at a life of happiness.. the issue is Nora isnt too interested..she doesn’t want to live..she’s made her choice.

Now here’s where the book just knocks it out of the park.. Nora slowly learns that perhaps having regrets isnt needed.. life isnt prefect and in each version of her life Nora she struggles to find happiness. There’s an important message shining through.. maybe we all just need to try to see the good in our lives rather than live with regrets.

Maybe things happen for a reason, maybe those relationships were meant to break down.

As Nora returns to the library after each journey we slowly see her outlook change.. maybe her life isn’t that bad aftrall..she finds herself wanting to live.. but she’s running out of time.

The Midnight Library is my first foray into the authors work and I’ve heard many a good thing. Based on stellar recommendations I felt it was time to give the author a try and I’m so glad I did.  

Overall, a beautifully written thought-provoking tale that helps you consider a very difficult subject. Mental health is very prominent these days, and righty so, but it’s not easy to understand since we are all very different. I really enjoyed how the author tackled the subject and I dare you to read this and try and tell me you didn’t feel differently at the end.

Easy 5*

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon! Or any good local retailor 😊

BLOG TOUR – JULIA PRIMA A Roma Nova Foundation Story by Alison Morton plus 10 Question With…

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Today I’m pleased to be taking part in the blog tour for JULIA PRIMA A Roma Nova Foundation Story by Alison Morton.

I was also lucky enough to have the chance to ask the author some questions about their work so keep reading on for a 10 Questions With feature. I’ve not had one on the blog in a while so very esxcited!!

Here’s the book blurb.

“You should have trusted me. You should have given me a choice.”

AD 370, Roman frontier province of Noricum. Neither wholly married nor wholly divorced, Julia Bacausa is trapped in the power struggle between the Christian church and her pagan ruler father.

Tribune Lucius Apulius’s career is blighted by his determination to stay faithful to the Roman gods in a Christian empire. Stripped of his command in Britannia, he’s demoted to the backwater of Noricum – and encounters Julia.

Unwittingly, he takes her for a whore. When confronted by who she is, he is overcome with remorse and fear. Despite this disaster, Julia and Lucius are drawn to one another by an irresistible attraction.

But their intensifying bond is broken when Lucius is banished to Rome. Distraught, Julia gambles everything to join him. Following her heart’s desire brings danger she could never have envisaged…

Review.

Julia Prima is book 10 in the wonderful Roma Nova series by Alison Morton. It’s a foundation story so you don’t need to have read the previous books in the series to enjoy it but it could hurt to get them all if you haven’t already 🙂 .

We meet Julia, trapped in a system that allows a female little independence, and at a time when family honour was held above all.  

Julia is legally divorced but stuck in an environment with battling religious system.

When the eye-catching Lucius arrives Julia finally finds what she’s been after, a natural attraction that builds, emotions, the kind that will make you do anything.

Word soon spreads and as Julia’s ex husband holds some sway Lucius soon has his orders to pack his bags.. he has to follow orders even if he doesn’t want to but does he really know how Julia feels?

Now, Julia’s father is clever.. he knows she can’t be a spinster for the rest of her life and he finds her a match he hopes will work.. it’s not for love.. it would be convenience for both.. but Julia isn’t one for letting a man tell her what she can and can’t do in life and she sets out to find Lucius.. a long and hard journey.

Along the way religious beliefs at the time play a big part.. she’s a young woman.. while she’s not alone she really needs to be careful and story is soon thought of to keep her identify unknown but how long can they last without someone finding her…. Or have they already found her?

Now to the nitty-gritty.. plot.. FANTASTIC. I’ve read a lot of the authors work and I really felt this one just packed an extra punch.. it’s more emotional.. a desperate journey which I found more intense and gritty.. LOVED IT!

Development wise everything is paced well and as always the author manages to mix plot and romance seamlessly. If you are a follower of my reviews you’ll know I’m not a fan of romance when it feels forced into a story but Alison Morton adds these aspects naturally allowing the story to feel real… you feel the connections between the characters.

While I loved the character of Julia and her shear strength & determination I also fell in love with Aegius and Asella who accompany Julia on her journey. I’m not one for spoilers but these 3 together are what makes this book work.

Wonderful writing with an easy flowing exciting plot. What more could I ask for!

A spectacular 5*

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon.  Or any good bookseller. Keep it local if you can 😊

Now would you like to see a 10 Questions With feature, here we go….

10 Questions with…

Q1. I’ve absolutely fallen in love with the Roma Nova Series, so I loved the idea of a prequel. Was it hard to come up with the plot or did you always have this in mind as the next step in the series?

Thank you for your kind words about the series! Every country has a history that has impacted its people and entered their genes. The story of Julia Bacausa and Lucius Apulius has always been lurking in the background since the first book, INCEPTIO, when Karen/Carina fled to the safety of the Roma Novan legation. Gaia Memmia, the legation officer, is helping her adapt:


She gave me a kids’ history book that illustrated how Apulius and his four daughters had founded Roma Nova at the end of the fourth century. I laughed at the heroic little cartoon characters waving their swords around, but Gaia took it all seriously. Descended from the Julii and Flavians, both tough political families, according to Gaia, Apulius had married a Celt from Noricum. Although Romanised for several generations, women in her family made decisions, fought in battles and managed property.

That was over ten years ago. Although I never planned to write a whole novel, the need to write the foundation story has crept up on me year by year…

Q2. No spoilers, but a lot of description was packed in superbly, locations, methods of travel, clothes, attitudes and so on. Did you do a lot of research into anything specific to help you write Julia’s tale? 

The short answer – yes, everything! I have a general knowledge of the period and I know the Alpine areas of Austria and Italy, and the Tuscany and Umbria areas of Italy. I’ve walked round a lot of Rome’s hard pavements.  The most important thing to remember is that Ancient Rome lasted 1,229 years in the West. A great deal had changed by AD 370 even from the classical period of the first two centuries AD. We know our own world has changed out of recognition from, say the 1950s, yet many core elements are still there. Moving history on is something all historical fiction writers should be aware of, and I paid particular attention to those changes. By AD 370, togas had all but been abandoned along with the three dining couch convention and, horror of horrors, Roman soldiers wore trousers!

On the practical side, I had excellent help from Roman writing friends Ruth Downie on travel and Gordon Doherty on reference books for Late Antiquity.

Q3. I love a good prologue and JULIA PRIMA’s packs a punch! I heard recently some readers actually don’t enjoy a good prologue. What are your thoughts? For me, a prologue sets things up nicely, so when done right will hook the reader in from the first page.

Ha! Prologues. 🙂 Any two fiction writers or readers will argue about prologues! I’m neutral on them. If there’s one in a book, I always read it. If the author has put one in, then there must be a reason for it. In JULIA PRIMA, the prologue seemed to naturally fall into place. I needed to set the story up, but the incident wasn’t an integral part of the first part of Julia’s own story, although it becomes extremely important as it goes along. It also lets the reader be in on a secret that Julia doesn’t know…

Q4. One thing I’ve always loved about your characters is the strength and depth given to the female roles, turning society norms on their heads. In JULIA PRIMA this continues but we also see some wonderful development of a male character Aegius who plays a big role and you did a wonderful job painting his history. Did you find it easy writing his story? 

I like portraying a strong male character who isn’t a love interest, but who is a typical tough nut. Their role is to be a friend/supporter who is straight-talking, stands no nonsense from the heroine, but is loyal. Lurio does this for Carina and Tertullius Plico for Aurelia. Whether any of them holds a candle for the heroine is for the reader to decide…

Q5. I know you’ve read some of my reviews previously and so you’ll know I’m not a romance man when it feels forced. Do you find it hard to balance the romance and plot within your stories, as it comes across effortlessly with just the right amount of detail to have things develop naturally.

I feel that a story without an emotional element is lacking; even the toughest thriller needs the characters to connect personally, even if not romantically, but it should be integral, not parachuted in as an afterthought. JULIA PRIMA is the most romantic novel I’ve written. It had to be, as the story is about two people who founded a dynasty. I’m a long-time member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association and they gave me my first lessons in novel writing.  Whether you write steamy romance or adventure with a light romantic touch, the most important thing is to keep the characters and their feelings authentic within the plot of the story. Conflict, misunderstandings, separation, danger, heartache, persistence and courage work for me. It’s always about feelings, not mechanics!

Q6. Other than your wonderful Roma Nova series you’ve also stepped into the thriller genre with the Mélisende Thrillers series. How did it feel moving away from the comfort of Roma Nova?

Quite peculiar! It was Conn Igguldden who said I wrote a good riot and a great heroine when he gave me a cover endorsement for INSURRECTIO. He challenged me to write a modern European heroine with the same backbone. Obviously, I gave her failings as well. 😉 As I live in France and am both British and French, Mel/Mélisende developed naturally. I did six years in the British forces, so I could write her military background, except that the French Army has some interesting differences in recruitment, traditions and training! I did find a way to sneak Rome in with a chase round Trajan’s Market in Double Pursuit!

Q7. The Roma Nova series is a great example of alternative history done right. If you could go back, is there anything you aren’t 100% happy with?

I think every novelist looks back, tempted to go through their first book or first few books and change things, but I think it’s better to move forward. I’m equally sure that I write better than I did ten years ago and would probably get through several red pens if I went back. However, INCEPTIO, my first book, remains far and away my best seller.

Q8. So you’ve conquered alternative history, smashed thrillers. Is there any genre you’d love to try next? Or indeed any that you would stay away from?

Crumbs! That’s a difficult question. When I started, I was just writing a story that had been simmering away in my brain. Apart from general experience as a reader, I had no idea about genres. I loved, and still love, historical fiction, adventure, spy, thriller, international crime and conspiracy stories along with being a dedicated fan of Georgette Heyer Regency novels, so I’m really mixed up! I think my writing topics, interests and themes reflect this mix.

Periods of change fascinate me, as do the roles of women in history. I love stumbling upon stories of unsung heroines, or women who could have played a decisive part in history if they had been male. Anything slightly quirky, really, but not erotica!

Q9. What was the most recent book you’ve read yourself that you would recommend?

Currently, I’m re-reading Lindsey Davis’s epic Master and God. She stepped away from the Falco and Flavia Albia series and wrote a 480-page barnstormer about Emperor Domitian with two beautifully constructed fictional characters: pragmatic, effective, yet reserved vigilis turned Praetorian Gaius Vinius and freedwoman Flavia Lucilla, a capable and favoured hairdresser to the imperial family, yet a lonely young woman. All of Davis’s hallmarks are there – the research, the poignancy, the understatement, the compassion. And her drawing of Domitian is masterly. Highly recommended!

Q10. I ask this every time but that’s because I really need to know… What’s next? More books, I hope. 😊

Yes, more books. A second Roma Nova foundation story, this one set in AD 395, as I’ve only told half the story behind the origin of Roma Nova. This always happens to me. I write one book, then find I have too much story and need to write a second, or even a third! Then I’d like to tackle a third Mélisende modern thriller. Plenty to keep me busy!

Why not follow the blog tour?

Author Bio.

Bio

Alison Morton writes award-winning thrillers featuring tough but compassionate heroines. Her nine-book Roma Nova series is set in an imaginary European country where a remnant of the ancient Roman Empire has survived into the 21st century and is ruled by women who face conspiracy, revolution and heartache but with a sharp line in dialogue.

She blends her fascination for Ancient Rome with six years’ military service and a life of reading crime, historical and thriller fiction. On the way, she collected a BA in modern languages and an MA in history. 

Alison now lives in Poitou in France, the home of Mélisende, the heroine of her two contemporary thrillers, Double Identity and Double Pursuit. Oh, and she’s writing the next Roma Nova story.

Social media links

Connect with Alison on her Roma Nova site: https://alison-morton.com

Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/AlisonMortonAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/alison_morton     @alison_morton

Alison’s writing blog: https://alisonmortonauthor.com

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

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5783095.Alison_Morton
Alison’s Amazon page: https://Author.to/AlisonMortonAmazon

Newsletter sign-up: https://www.alison-morton.com/newsletter/

Perfect Little Lies by S.A. Tameez – Review

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Today I’m reviewing Perfect Little Lies by S.A. Tameez.

Here’s the blurb

After a body is discovered in the Thames, DS Nick Bailey & DC Zoe Hall begin the hunt for an elusive killer. The clues point to a notorious serial killer, but their instincts point them in a different direction.

With numerous suspects, each with a motive, the Major Crime’s Unit has its work cut out.

After joining the dots, they soon realise there is someone among them who will do anything not to get caught – even kill again.

Review

DS Bailey and DC Hall have a murder to solve. Is a notorious killer back.. The Sailor… or is this a copy cat?

I really loved the plot with this one, paced well, detailed scenes with character development thrown in to ensure you feel the motivations and emotions of the characters. In the fashion I like for the genre the characters have flaws.. we like to imagine those upholding the law are perfect but they are human themselves and they need to juggle personal and professional issues and the stakes are high.

Perfect Little Lies is the perfect mix of suspense & thriller.. it’s dark and devastating perfect tale.

Format wise I loved the feel, chapter length was spot on.. just long enough to hook a claw in you so much that you always have to go for one more chapter and before you know it you’ve demolished the entire book!

I loved the twists, very unexpected at times and it really makes the plot standout from just being a good book to being a 5* murderous success. Highly recommended!

To find out more head to Amazon or Goodreads. Or any good local bookseller if you can 🙂

Valentia by Adam Lofthouse – Review

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Today I’m reviewing Valentia by Adam Lofthouse!

Here’s the blurb

Meet Tribune Sixtus Victorinus. Drunken soldier. Absent father. Unlikely hero.


Wall of Hadrian, Britannia, AD 367

It’s just another day, until it isn’t. Tribune Sixtus Victorinus is scouting north of the Wall when he first sees the smoke. Little does he know it’s about to change his life forever. Riding south he finds a province in chaos, the local populace in flight, the soldiers absent.

For rebellion is in the air at the far reaches of empire. The land is ablaze, overrun with barbarians, ‘Valentia’, is the word on everyone’s lips. And no one seems to have the first clue what to do about it.

And so Victorinus must act. He has let his life run to ruin, drunk his youth away. 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.

Review

As a fan of the authors work I was looking forward to this one immensely!

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.

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 know each other for years.. kind of opposites but at the same time hold some of the same qualities.. if only Victorinus could overcome his demons!

The book starts well and the plot moves at the perfect speed building the pressure as Victorinus and Felicuis spit up with the same aim.. find out who is behind this and stop them.

Roman forts have been abandoned… but where are the bodies..and theirs multiple enemies reported all over..who would have the power and money to make this happen or is it all one big coincidence? And what or who is Valentia… is everyone being honest about what they know?

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!

Having read the authors previous offerings I’m more than impressed. The hard hitting and commanding plots and character development just keep coming and I can’t wait to see what’s next. I felt that the author really had fun with this one and found the winning mix!

5/5 stars

It was a pleasure to purchase and add this to my ever growing collection of kindle books… Don’t tell the wife though… When payday hits I’m buying the paperback for the collection 😊

To find out more head to Goodreads or Amazon (Or even your local bookstore 😊 )

BLOG TOUR – Dead Money by Keith Nixon (Jonah Pennance Crime Thrillers Book 2)

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Today I help kick off the blog tour for Dead Money by Keith Nixon. Any follower of my blog will know Keith is a firm favourite of mine 😊

Here’s the blurb

With a reputation for solving bizarre murders Detective Inspector Jonah Pennance, recently transferred to the National Crime Agency, is brought in to investigate the mysterious death of celebrity fund manager, Grady Carnegie – choked to death, then his body arranged and ready for a wake.

Then a second corpse turns up under identical circumstances – that of washed-up investigative reporter, Stan Thewlis. But how are the two men connected?

Soon, Pennance’s partner, Sergeant Simone Smithson, comes under suspicion for the deaths – the evidence seems overwhelming. To save her Pennance must determine what role the shadowy organisation Blackthorn plays and who is in the background, pulling all the strings…

Review

Dead Money is the 2nd book in the Jonah Pennance Crime Thrillers series.. and I’m so glad to be back!

Pennance, who is now with the National Crime Agency Is brought in to help investigate a mysterious death. It’s clear he’s going to have his hands full the moment a 2nd body is discovered.. the only link between them at first is the method of their death..but there must be more.

As the investigation starts to gain pace there’s more than one stumbling block for Pennance to navigate.. Sergeant Simone Smithson for one..,Smithson and Pennance have a history and it’s going to make this investigation that much harder.

I’m never one for spoilers but I loved the method of death, it hooks you in straightaway as an unusual murder which you just have to see through to the end.

The characters are brilliant as ever, Keith Nixon knows how to write that’s for sure and gives a lot of depth to Pennance. He’s a flawed character, swayed by emotions at times but he’s fascinating! I love that he enjoys ruffling feathers along the way ha.

What I really loved was how the author developed characters who didn’t even say a word… the victims, especially Stan Thewlis. You can really see a lot of time was given to writing the plot ensuring a backstory full of intriguing titbits.

Nixon keeps getting better and better, if that’s even possible. All I know is every book he puts out there is a real cracking read that any fan of the genre will love!

Dead Money starts slow, setting the scene… then we are thrust into a world of misdirection as the author masterfully takes us on the investigation with Jonah.. weeding out the truth.

Probably the strongest finishing book from Nixon yet leaving me with a insatiable thirst for more!

5/5 Stars.

To find out more or to purchase head to Goodreads or Amazon (Or any local bookstore 😊 )

My thanks go to the author, the publisher and ZooloosBookTours for having me on the tour and for providing me a copy of the book to aid my review! I’ve already bought my own copy too!

Why not follow the tour?

Author Bio

Keith Nixon is the best-selling author of sixteen novels and one million words in print, including the Margate based Solomon Gray series of over 250,000 copies in circulation and reached no.1 on Amazon in the UK, US, Canada and Australia.

Keith lived near the gritty seaside town of Margate, where many of his novels are based, for 17 years before relocating to the edge of the Peak District with his family where he lives today. Keith works in a senior sales role within a high-tech industry and has regularly travelled all over the globe.

His novels are published by Gladius Press and Bastei Lubbe (German)


Follow Keith:


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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/knntom

Website: keithnixon.co.uk