They Called Him Marvin by Roger Stark

They Called Him Marvin: A History of Love, War and Family by Roger Stark

"They were the fathers we never knew, the uncles we never met, the friends who never returned, the heroes we can never repay. They gave us our world. And those simple sounds of freedom we hear today are their voices speaking to us across the years." Bill Clinton.

Such a man was 1st Lt Dean Harold Sherman, B-29 Airplane Commander.

“They Called Him Marvin” is a history. A history of war and of family. A history of the collision of the raging politics of a global war, young love, patriotism, sacred family commitments, duty and the horrors and tragedies, the catastrophe that war is.

A reviewer explains: "I am a fan of historical fiction and this story did not disappoint. It was sweet, tragic, personal, and moving. Gradually and almost imperceptibly, the story of two wartime sweethearts begins circling the drain of a tragedy you know is coming. The book begins with the ending, but by the time you get there you have convinced yourself that it can't possibly be the case. I enjoyed every moment, even the ones that left me in tears.

The letters between Connie and Dean provided a fascinating glimpse into wartime life. Reading the experiences of people both at home and abroad was very engaging. I found myself eagerly awaiting the next letter, right along with the young couple!

Lastly, the book left me with an overwhelming acknowledgement of the universal trauma and tragedy of war. The Sherman’s are not the only family we meet in the book and the weaving together of several different narratives added a depth to the story that's hard to put into words.

I definitely encourage anyone to read this book, especially if historical novels are not something you typically read. This is a story about people and you won't want it to end.

They Called Him Marvin by Roger Stark is a merger between American and Japanese events during WWII, and the very human reality of one American pilot and his love letters to his wife.  The candor in their loving correspondence, and the stark reality of war, clash against each other within the pages of this book.  Like the major and minor notes being pulled from an orchestra by a master conductor, history is brought to life and the full impact of war is felt.

Packed with historical content, and portrayed with a vibrant pen, They Called Him Marvin by Roger Stark comes very highly recommended!!.

Grab your copy of "They Called Him Marvin: A History of Love, War and Family by Roger Stark today!

The Veil (The Redemption Series) by Torstein Beck

The Veil (The Redemption Series) by Torstein Beck

Synopsis:

We thought we’d be at the top of the food chain forever. We were wrong.

Aaro Emmerson knows what lies beyond the walls.

It’s why he vowed never to go out there again.

But his city is dying, and the chance at a better life is hanging in the balance.

He must journey a thousand kilometers into the wild unknown, into their territory, and retrieve a nuclear core that has the power to save one of the last refuges of man.

The plan is suicidal. But it’s better to die on your feet than on your knees.

For fourteen years, he’s been seeking a chance for redemption. And now he has one.

They’ve got protection, they’ve got guns, but what they don’t realize, is that just maybe the worst monster of all is already inside…

The Veil is the first book in the Redemption Series.

Praise for The Veil:
“Terrifying. Brutal. Powerful. This really is a new breed of Dystopia.”

“The Veil is a book that’s about as bloody as it is good.”

“Horrifically great….I’ve never read anything quite like this.”

 Review:

In Torstein Beck’s dystopian science-fiction novel, The Veil, a young man struggles to survive after losing everything to the creation of the vicious attempt of a science project. This is an amazing, chilling and suspense filled story that readers will love and revel in.

Set one hundred years from now, The Veil features leading scientist Florian Gertlinger who spearheads an ambitious project that goes horribly wrong. The Varas, which are powerful savage predators, become the result of the team’s vision. Meanwhile, after having their beautiful baby Lila, Emilie and Aaro Emmerson are more than happy and content. What Aaro would never have foreseen, however, is a break-in by a murderous monster that kills and devours his wife and child. Aaro is left with nothing to live for. Years pass and Oslo’s streets become even more dilapidated and its residents more desperate to survive. When Aaro is presented with an opportunity to change his life and save his people, he takes it even though he knows he is about to come face to face with death.

The novel focuses on the main characters Aaro and Gertlinger, showing the creation and the result of the project. Aaro struggles to survive through everything. During his mission to Murmansk, Russia to collect a nuclear reactor that could possibly save the people, he faces imminent danger at every turn. Several aspects of the novel make it stand out. First, it does not aim to create a grandiose end, rather, death in the story becomes a form of escape from an undefeatable predator. It also focuses on ethical and policy issues in science. Government and political systems do not play a central role in the plot. Descriptions are graphic and shocking, painting a vivid image of the monsters while the characters are few and each plays an important role throughout the story. The plot does not follow a chronological order but shifts from the future to current times which creates penetrating suspense in the novel.

Horrifying yet thrilling, The Veil, is concisely written. It is driven by the incidents of each scene rather than a culmination of events at the end. Fast paced, excellent characters and a plot to die for, Torstein Beck has written a surprising and believable story that will have readers on the edge of their seats, filled with various intense emotions from start to finish. Highly recommended by Chick Lit Café. – Reviewed by Edith Emunah for Chick Lit Café.

Don’t miss this amazing 5 star dystopian science-fiction novel!
Purchase The Veil by Torstein Beck today!

The Winds of Happiness by Teresa Fiedler-Buss

The Winds of Happiness: Irie’s Adventures by Teresa Fiedler-Buss – Illustrated by Bailey Traxler

Synopsis:

Welcome to this crazy world called life!

Have you ever wanted to go on an adventure? Do you like taking selfies?

How attached are you to your electronics or tablet? Do you like robots and drones more?

Would you rather dance and have fun with bubbles? Or would you rather go out for pizza and a movie?

If you answered yes to one of these questions, then you will LOVE this book!

The Winds of Happiness will engage children in a fun and current way to learn important life lessons.

Your child/student’s values start developing with what is taught and learned in social and personal situations.
If you are a parent, guardian or teacher wanting to assist in making a difference in today’s society, this book is for you.

This book includes children discussions, interactive pages and teacher lesson plans which will help with
Common Core State Standard (CCSS) & Social Emotional Learning (SEL).

Review:

The Winds of Happiness: Irie’s Adventures by Teresa Fiedler-Buss is a cute and colorful narrative about an adventurous and laid back, but lively spirited dog named Irie, and her cheerful and energetic bunch of friends. This is a delightful must-read book for every child in your life.

Irie’s friends are always reminding her to be creative, make her own fun but most importantly always be herself! Irie goes on all sorts of fantastic adventures in The Winds of Happiness! One being an incredible day at a splash pad with a DJ and bubbles! Irie learns she doesn’t need technology to have a good time, she can create her own awesome day with musical inspiration and perseverance to “make it happen!”  Another adventure tells of Irie’s birthday at the movies and pizza with her friends Max and Bubba. Throughout the day, Max has issues with social anxiety and uses his tablet to comfort himself and keep his mind off crowded situations. But what he doesn’t realize is his actions start to affect the people and mechanics around him! Being the empathetic friend Irie is, she helps Max get through this troublesome situation with kindness and apprehension. A wonderful reminder to have patience with others and to try to see through someone else’s eyes. And how true friends always help each other out.

The Winds of Happiness touches on many different common and important themes to help a child with emotional growth and development. Such as; learning about coping with life changes, having goals and dreams, important lessons in manners and following rules correctly and responsibly. It gives clear instruction and details with a helpful outline guide that shows key points to be made while reading and how to integrate this book into a lesson plan. Which makes it the perfect book for all types of unit studies in the classroom and for homeschoolers.

I absolutely adored this lovable and wholesome children’s book that made my kids and I smile nonstop from the beginning to the end! Bailey Traxler’s bright and expressive illustrations went along with the story and told it perfectly. Giving it a vivid pizzazz no other children’s book has ever done with such a cool style.

With its unique cast of characters and an entertaining storyline I would greatly recommend The Winds of Happiness: Irie’s Adventures by Teresa Fiedler-Buss to all parents of kids looking for a feel good story full of positive vibes and undeniable contagious good energy!! This one has a permanent spot in our kid’s lit corner at our home!!
Reviewed by Beatrix Bloom for Chick Lit Cafe.

Buy The Winds of Happiness: Irie's Adventures by Teresa Fielder-Buss Today!

The Truth About Gretchen by Alretha Thomas

                 

The Truth About Gretchen (Dancing Hills Series Book 2) by Alretha Thomas

Synopsis:

Gretchen Holloway, in her final year of graduate school, is in the throes of auditioning actors for her thesis film, inspired by a murdered young football star who has haunted her dreams for two years. Gretchen believes making the movie will be cathartic. But instead of freeing her, embarking upon the film production unleashes a sequence of events that lead Gretchen to conclude that she’s the reincarnation of the young man.

Regina Wilson has always wanted to be an actress. When her agent gets her an audition for a role in Gretchen’s film, which eerily mirrors one of the worst events of her life—the unsolved murder of her older brother, Robert—she’s hard-pressed to go through with it. Upon fleeing, she leaves behind a keepsake that features Robert’s photo. Gretchen sees the picture and recognizes Robert from her dreams. She tracks down Regina, and after being rebuffed and called crazy, Gretchen’s unexplainable knowledge of events in Robert’s life eventually convinces Regina that Gretchen is Robert reincarnated.

The two decide to have his case reopened, but their significant others are dead set against it, and the police, who believe that Robert’s death was gang-related, are less than cooperative. However, Gretchen is desperate to get justice for her former self, and Regina wants justice for her brother. The women piece together the final week of Robert’s life. And the deeper they delve into his past; one shocking revelation follows another, leaving them wondering who they can trust and if they’ll live long enough to find Robert’s killer and bring him to justice.

Chick Lit Cafe’s Review:

The Truth About Gretchen by award winning author, Alretha Thomas is an intriguing, captivating mystery unlike anything I have ever read. This is one of those rare books that must be made into a movie. Readers are in for a surprise with this suspense filled, mysterious and emotional book.

Gretchen Holloway has been cursed with recurring nightmares about a young man who has been murdered. She is a graduate film student, and feels a strong need to make a movie about her dreams and what she sees.  Regina Wilson’s brother, Robert, was murdered twenty-six years ago, and it has since gone unsolved. She is an actress about to audition for the leading role in Gretchen’s film, but she backs out at the last minute with the chilling feeling that the film strangely resembles her own brother’s murder. However, she mistakenly leaves something behind which Gretchen finds. This seemingly insignificant item bonds Gretchen and Regina together in an intriguing, momentous and spiritual way.

Alretha Thomas’ expressive writing style captivated me from the very first chapter. I quickly connected with Gretchen and Regina, as I felt their emotions, heard their thoughts and could picture the entire scene as they were driven to find Robert’s killer. With a powerful original premise and compelling storyline woven together beautifully, The Truth About Gretchen is the best book I have read in years. It is magnificently written in the first person of the two main characters. This story is a rollercoaster ride with many dirty players involved. With a depth rarely seen in mystery and suspense books, the author has created a one-of-a-kind story with remarkable, relatable and likable characters and compelling clues that all come to shape magnificently, drawing the reader further and further in at every turn of the page. The conclusion is astounding.

The Truth About Gretchen by Alretha Thomas is a welcome gift to all readers who love mysteries that go beyond the ordinary. But, instead delves into extraordinary unique elements that will keep them coming back for more from this noteworthy author. This is a 5 star must read book!

Purchase The Truth About Gretchen by Alretha Thomas

Visit Alretha Thomas’ Featured Author page on CLC’s Author Spotlight page.

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk by Nadishka Aloysius

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius

Synopsi

If you and your family love CULTURAL DIVERSITY and TRAVEL then this is the book for you

Roo is a little Tuk Tuk. Join Roo as he recalls the many ups and downs of his life on the roads of Colombo (the commercial capital of Sri Lanka). From road races, to Polo tournaments, to animal rescues, this little vehicle has lived life to its fullest. Experience the joys and perils of Tuk Tuks on the streets, and learn many life lessons along the way with this courageous Tuk Tuk who is always ready to lend a helping hand and spread some cheer. You are never too little to make a difference…

Also known as tri-shaws or three wheelers, Tuk Tuks are a common sight in the eastern world. All foreign visitors are encouraged to ride a Tuk Tuk at least once when they visit Sri Lanka: but the recommendation also goes with a warning to HOLD ON TIGHT! 

All the incidents in this book are adapted from news stories and Facebook posts of real life Tuk Tuk drivers who are unafraid to be more than just a means of transportation. So, (I’d say ‘buckle your seatbelt’ but there are no seatbelts in Tuk Tuks…!), enjoy some of the sights and sounds of beautiful Colombo and its wonderful people as you read this book that also teaches you – you are never too little to make a difference!

*** Includes a JIGSAW PUZZLE for you to print and play*** 

Review:

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk by Nadishka Aloysius is a delightful story about an adorable little Tuk Tuk vehicle who reminisces about his life filled with adventure, excitement, fun and service through his love for helping others.

This is such a unique and charming picture book for young children. Before I read this wonderful book, I had the notion that “Tuk Tuk” was a cute word the author, Nadishka Aloysius cleverly came up with for the book in order to make it extra special and appealing to kids. I was amazed to discover that it is an actual vehicle used in Colombo, Sri Lanka to transport people. What a nice and surprising experience for children to enjoy a story filled with fun and adventure while learning something new. Roo is a little Tuk Tuk who has had an exciting and meaningful life full of interesting and fun experiences. Giving people rides and hauling books to help for charity are just some of the many important things Roo has had the pleasure of doing in his little Tuk Tuk life. Roo is red, sweet, kind and loves to help others. Now he is older and ready to rest and retire. What will become of Roo the little red Tuk Tuk who has spent a lifetime of service, whizzing around while helping and caring about others? Children will be delighted at the happy ending of this endearing, lovable and original picture book. Nadishka Aloysius has done a remarkable job of creating a wonderful imaginative story. She has written it so very young children will understand the meaningful narrative, and be thrilled with the storyline. The pictures, created by Illustrator, Privanka Fonseka are lively, vivid and captivating. I read Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk to my young granddaughters, ages 2, 3 and 5. They were excited and thrilled by all of the action, adventure, bright colors – and the sweet and engaging story of little Roo. They delighted in the colorful pictures, and loved all the many different sounds that Roo made while he buzzed around the city. Now, they want it read to them often, and this book has helped to further teach them the meaning and importance of caring about, and helping others.

Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk is a must read book and story for all young children, and I am certain they will love totally love it! It is so special, adventuresome and delightful! Artisan Book Reviews recommends Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius to all parents, grandparents and caregivers for those special little ones in your life. And don’t forget, it comes with a cute jig saw puzzle for kids to have fun and play with, as well.

Purchase Roo, The Little Red Tuk Tuk: Picture Book about a Spunky Vehicle for Children age 2 – 6 by Nadishka Aloysius today!

The Karma Book Club by Kayley Wood - Book & Review

The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy by Kayley Wood 
Series: Club Series 
Genres: Emotional, Humorous, Romantic Comedy 
Format: Kindle 
Buy on Amazon 
Goodreads 
 

Synopsis:

Mia never felt the need to speak up for herself… not with three protective sisters (who always know what is best for her), an assertive boyfriend (Doug never minds speaking for her), and then there is her bestie, Kat, who has no problem stealing the attention for herself.

With a nervous bladder (which strikes at the worst possible times) and a fear of public speaking, Mia is comfortable with the way things are.

That is, until Mia comes home to find her things packed by the door and is told the news that her boyfriend and best friend fell in love.

Now homeless and anything but comfortable, Mia’s three sisters come to the rescue (as usual) by helping her land the perfect apartment, but a colossal mishap lands gorgeous, bad boy Logan on her doorstep with a key and a lease of his own.

In exchange for a free month’s stay, Logan agrees to help Mia find the voice and confidence she now desperately craves.

The plan? Mia will finally stand up for herself and give her exes what they deserve.

It’s not revenge. It’s Karma.

Mia’s one rule: No matter how charming, funny and sexy Logan Miller is, she cannot fall in love with him.

Logan’s one rule: No matter how adorable, sweet and sexy she is, Mia is off limits.

Are some rules made to be broken, or will Logan turn out to be what everyone warned her he was: someone who would only break her heart in the end?

An updated, professionally edited version. Although all books in the Club Series can be read as a standalone, it’s way more fun to read in order!

Purchase: The Karma Book Club by Kayley Wood today!

The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy (Club Series 2) by Kayley Wood

Book review:

The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy (Club Series 2) by Kayley Wood is a must read, 5 star romantic comedy with delightful characters, an exciting, funny and heartfelt narrative and convincing, addicting plot.

Mia watches her entire life crumble before her very eyes as her so-called “best friend” and her supposed trustworthy “boyfriend” sit her down on her favorite red couch (that she purchased) to break the heartbreaking (for her) news that they were in love and kicking her out of her own apartment. Shocked and numb to this appalling and shameful act of betrayal, Mia has nothing to say but her mind races with a million thoughts. One being how she had paid for the majority of everything in her apartment and now she is getting nothing, but practically kicked out onto the street. What wonderful friends she has. Good thing Mia also has her sisters who come to her rescue like she knew they would, in their own ways of course but each very resourceful.  They even found the perfect new apartment for her that would set her on a good start to a new life on her own minus the toxic people she was leaving behind and to keep in her past.

Logan has been couch surfing for the past few months after having a fall out with a rich and popular power couple that had already made sure his good name was tarnished. This seemed to be preventing Logan from obtaining a new job which led to his stay at his best buds pad that he shared with his very reluctant girlfriend. He needed a place of his own and a perfect apartment happened to be opening up as soon as the old tenant died, which was at any moment now, Logan was told by his friend. Leases are signed and moves are made. Mia finds Logan at her door with a pleasant misunderstanding. With an agreement of exchanging confidence boosting coaching sessions for free rent, Mia decides to keep things platonic between her and Logan, despite his gorgeous looks and dashing personality. But that doesn’t quite work out for Mia when sparks fly with Logan!

The Karma Book Club by Kayley Wood is hilariously funny and unique! A fun plot that keeps you guessing at every turn of the page! This book had me laughing out loud, along with experiencing many heartfelt emotions throughout this grand slam of a story! Kayley Wood has really delivered a fun-loving novel with charming characters and a delightful plotline to boot! She has a creative expressive voice and delightful writing style, drawing the reader in, engaging them with her outstanding narrative and plot. The Karma Book Club is a story which shows that even when life seems impossible and hopeless there is still a light at the end of the tunnel. Life has a funny way of working itself out and this is a perfect portrayal of such. What a great read! Chick Lit Cafédefinitely recommends The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy (Club Series 2) by Kayley Wood to all readers who enjoy original romantic comedies filled with down-to-earth emotion, relatable characters and packed with clever “LOL” humor.

~Reviewed by Beatrix Bloom for Chick Lit Café~

Purchase The Karma Book Club: A Romantic Comedy (Club Series 2) by Kayley Wood today!

What readers are saying about The Karma Book Club

“I must say I am totally wowed by this author. I spent as much time laughing as I did crying at parts of this story.” – Amazon review

“Phenomenal. I laughed a lot with this one. Well done Kayley.” – Amazon review

“I don’t believe in Karma so I wasn’t sure I’d enjoy this book, but I did! So funny!” – Amazon review

“Logan stole my heart. Mia needed Logan for her to be the person she should be.” – Goodreads review

“I knew I liked Logan Miller! I was excited to read this one after The Virgin Club and I wasn’t disappointed. It was the right balance between fun and emotion and romance. – Goodreads review

Really love this series. Can’t wait until the next book is out. – Goodreads review
Check Out The Entire LOL Romantic Comedy “The Club Series” by Kayley Wood

The Priest of Santa Maria by Alexandra Kleanthous

The Priest of Santa Maria (The Beginning of the End Book 1) by Alexandra Kleanthous

Synopsis:

A Catholic priest fresh out of the seminary. A mysterious young woman in hiding from her past with a secret that could destroy the Church.

Christiano finds himself obliged to act as the temporary minister of a small town convent. There he meets the captivating Angelica who, unknown to him, has been seeking refuge at the convent under the supervision of the abbess. Within a month, sparks ignite between them, but the abbess intervenes demanding that Christiano leave the convent before she reports his conduct to the Monsignor. Little do they know his timely arrival is about to clash with Angelica’s dangerous past. This leads to catastrophic events that shatter the very foundations of the convent and change the lives of all involved.

Forced to flee the abbey, Christiano reluctantly takes on the role of Angelica’s protector as destiny throws them together on a journey he cannot refuse. Pursued by a malevolent alliance intent on capturing Angelica, dead or alive, they face insurmountable danger as they race across Italy to keep her and the secret safe.

Can the mild-mannered Christiano rise to the challenge?

The Priest of Santa Maria is the first in the religious thriller trilogy by Alexandra Kleanthous. If you like fast-paced action and a gripping tale, then you’ll love this original and exciting debut novel that’s filled with page-turning suspense, plus a little romance thrown in for good measure.

Buy The Priest of Santa Maria today and join Christiano and Angelica on their momentous chase across Italy!

Book review:

The Priest of Santa Maria by Alexandra Kleanthous is a remarkable, suspenseful religious thriller with memorable characters, beautifully descriptive writing, and an intense one-of-a-kind storyline which readers will find unable to put down.

The story opens with a mysterious and ancient parchment with primal instructions inscribed in another language constructed by a talented Babylonian craftsman before the death of Christ. Later, to be pieced together by a Swiss grandfather/daughter duo who have been waiting their entire lives for such an enigmatic and unknown cosmical force. A wondrous discovery of the unexplainable connection to a bold and beautifully bright star, but what does it all mean or represent? Certainly, a grand mystery that leaves readers fascinated and eager to find out!

With terrific, suspenseful foreshadowing and a fun, unique style of writing, Alexandra Kleanthous showers her readers with a vivid description of every scene that never fails to make it feel like a reality. Young and new, Father Christiano gets a tour of the beautiful church and convent. He admires the art, exquisite beauty and the quietness of his surroundings. However, he finds more than he expected when he finds himself protecting Angelica, a beautiful, mysterious woman with whom he crosses paths. InThe Priest of Santa Maria, the vivid and detailed words of the author, Alexandra Kleanthous, completely pulled me in, captivated and fully engaged me. With feelings of being amongst her characters, I learned of their genuineness and felt them living throughout their journey, which made The Priest of Santa Maria hard to put down. This book is filled with action and adventure, gripping readers with suspense while pleasing with a bit of intriguing romantic narrative.

I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed this riveting and gripping tale; it kept me interested and immersed the entire time. The plot was exciting, and I thought Kleanthous did a great job with keeping readers always guessing. A definite page-turner, Artisan Book Reviews recommends The Priest of Santa Maria by Alexandra Kleanthous for all that are looking for an exciting, interesting and entertaining summer read! A great enjoyment till the very end!

Purchase The Priest of Santa Maria by Alexandra Kleanthous today!

Boulevard Dreams by E Ryan Janz - 5 Star Book Review

Boulevard Dreams by E Ryan Janz

Synopsis:

Down and out private eye, Joe Nails, has a problem.
He endures a brief series of surrealistic dreams, in which his long-lost friend pleads for his help before turning a gun to his head and firing. Joe discovers the suicide did occur, a month before his dreams began, so he deepens his probe beneath the mystifying and smoky noir underbelly of 1958 San Francisco, and encounters rising walls of lies and heartbreak from amorous and anguished women alike, and stumbles across incomprehensible goons and vicious killers longing for further bliss, and where his long slow descent painfully binds him to a ruthless yet respectable kingpin bent on reigning over him.
Joe Nails has a problem all right, an entire shopping list of them, but as he speeds down an unrelenting road of murder and mystery with no off-ramps, he just may solve a few…providing the approaching.357 yearning for another victim allows it.

Review:

Boulevard Dreams by E Ryan Janz is an exceptional one-of-a-kind story filled with intrigue, mystery, mayhem, and suspense, in which readers will love and revel in.

It is 1958 in San Francisco’s smoky noir world, and private detective, Joe Nails is having reoccurring lucid dreams about his friend crying out to him for help, and then he puts a gun to his head and kills himself. Joe finally becomes concerned, and goes out to find his friend, but discovers that he has gone missing, and it has been a month since he has been seen. Joe begins to investigate and finds many shock-worthy things about his friend’s life, and some peculiar people that try to convince him of his friend’s supposed death. As Joe digs deeper in his investigation, the plot thickens. Soon, Joe finds himself deep in a world of deceit, murder, lust, suicide and suffering. Joe must face the truth of his friend’s horrific choices and actions, and in the end, the torment of his own.

E Ryan Janz has created a dramatic dark world of mystery, deception and death set in the nostalgic time of 1958, in a city that is known for its intrigue and worldliness. Boulevard Dreams is a fabulous read and one that readers won’t soon forget. Skillfully written, it has all the right elements of a smart crime and mystery novel. Then, goes beyond that and gives readers a chilling, thrilling and suspenseful ride with a fast paced, well developed and deep storyline and plot. The suspense is unsettling and very enticing. The characters are fully developed with quirky, curious and interesting personalities. Their clever, and sometimes humorous, dialogue is written in such a way that only an intelligent writer with a creative, original voice could think up. I connected with the characters and felt that author E Ryan Janz put his heart into them.

I couldn’t put Boulevard Dreams down, and turned the pages rapidly, fully engaged, to find out what would happen next and how Joe would solve this mystery without becoming a desperate man himself.   E Ryan Janz seems to have great detective skills himself, as it is clear in this story filled with twists and turns. The brilliant mystery plot had me guessing all the way through. My mind really became engulfed in this one, and I didn’t want it to end. I absolutely loved the setting and descriptive writing. Boulevard Dreams is an exciting page turner that readers won’t be able to put down until they have devoured the very last page. Boulevard Dreams is one of the best books in its genre that I have read in a long time. When I saw the cover, I had a feeling I would love the book – and I wholeheartedly did! Well done! Artisan Book Reviews highly recommends Boulevard Dreams by E Ryan Janz to all mystery and suspense lovers – and those who want to escape into the passion of the past, and a smoky noir world filled with intrigue, and crime in San Francisco!

Purchase Boulevard Dreams by E Ryan Janz today!

Diary of a Divine Relationship: Jack & Kelly by Theresa A. Laws

Diary of a Divine Relationship: Jack & Kelly by Theresa A. Laws

Synopsis:

Jack wasn’t perfect but he could admit it. Kelly wasn’t perfect nor could she hide it. A beautiful love story of a confident Christian politician and his love for a reluctant beautiful woman with special needs. Jack Riley, is an up and coming politician embarking on a new campaign to win a congressional seat in the state of Mississippi. Full of compassion for people, he’s fulfilling his ailing father’s wishes to take up the cause of social injustice. He’s also waiting on something or rather someone else he didn’t know he needed to fulfill his journey. Pressure from his mother and her tactics in matchmaking cause him to stop seeking all together and give the matter over to God. Kelly Sanders has had many obstacles to overcome due to special needs, but she and her family never give up. Seeking to overcome rejection through prayer and an ever determined spirit she reaches many of her life goals. But, something she never expects proves that God does indeed have a sense of humor as these two lives intersect. Jack and Kelly are both seeking to love and to be loved. Is she the one for whom he waits? Can their different paths merge into one? What do they learn about God and each other? Can family and friends derail heart decisions? What lessons are we taught as we journey through life with them? Be prepared. Be very prepared.

Review:

Despite her youth, Kelly was a brilliant and scholarly intellectual, being the only one in her family to earn her BA degree. Her mama, Emma, always knew her youngest daughter was smart and had a uniqueness apart from her older two girls, but she was also very protective over Kelly. And this was because even though Kelly was so intelligent, there was something else that made her “special”, due to complications at birth. Her condition caused bouts of social awkwardness fueled by severe anxiety, memory loss and unpredictable behavior, which trying to control with meds always just put her in a lethargic and sedated state. Emma figured she would always be the one to care for her youngest daughter, even after her older two were married off. Kelly would be the one to remain single because of her mental health and its circumstances.  That was up until her graduation, when to her mother and older sister’s surprise, a charming and charismatic man: Jack Riley, shows interest in young Kelly. But what are his intentions? What would a popular, almost celebrity-like, aspiring politician want to do with naive and inexperienced Kelly? Emma and her other daughters were unsure, but they did know one thing, they were not going to allow her to be taken advantage of. But maybe, just maybe, Jack was different as well, with a calling even unbeknownst to himself.

A completely enthralling and heartfelt story of how true, unconditional love still exists when we least expect it, and can come from the most unlikely of sources. Theresa A. Laws paints a lovely picture of a cute and quirky romance that will keep you guessing at every turn of the page. Funny and lighthearted, Diary of a Divine Relationship: Jack and Kelly had me smiling till the very end. It was refreshing to see such a strong, and vigorous, steadfast faith in God within Laws’ progressive characters. Her descriptive and colorful narrative really makes the reader feel connected and engaged with each personality they encounter, along with very relatable issues and storyline.

If you’re looking for an outstanding illustration of the power of prayer and how God works in mysterious ways, Diary of a Divine Relationship: Jack and Kelly by Theresa A. Laws is a perfect portrayal of such beautiful wonder. I thoroughly enjoyed this fun and delightful book and also was able to really appreciate the lessons to be learned from it. All very important things to be packed into one story, and Laws nails it. It is a definite recommend to anyone that desires to read something so expressive and lively.

Diary of a Divine Relationship: Jack and Kelly by Theresa A. Laws is a must read, and should certainly be added to your to-be-read book list!

Book reviewed by Beatrix Bloom for Chick Lit Café

Purchase Diary of a Divine Relationship: Jack and Kelly by Theresa A. Laws today