Title: The East German Spy Mistress Author: Natalia Pastukhova and Peter Morris Page Count: 269 Chapters: 20 Format: Paperback ARC Genre: Fiction Published: 2022 Publisher: Brown Dog Books ISBN: 978-1-83952-535-3 Picture:
Summary: It is 1955. An East German Agent a disillusioned man who hates pretty girls is sent to spy on a non-existent missile test in Cyrenaica. It is intended that he be caught. Ulrica, his boss, is busy smuggling stolen paintings and coins to the west in readiness to defect. A group of british army and RAF officers aware of communist traitors in the civil service, devise a deception to draw them from their lairs. Every subterfuge miscarries. Ingenuity counts for nothing. No one foresees the outcome, yet everyone ends up with more or less the slice of cake they deserve. Major Dardry is a wily and perceptive intelligence officer. Ulrica too is a heroine of sorts. Her espionage threads go back to wartime Tangier and although living out a life which she neither sought nor enjoys, tries to lessen the chaos and damage which she is tasked with sowing.
Disclaimer: First of all I would like to thank Literally PR and the Authors for sending me a Physical ARC to read. I read Natalia’s first book the east german police girl awhile back as well and enjoyed it to.
Review: I know I know ya’ll are saying get to the review. What did you think of the book blah blah blah. Ok, ok I get it. I really enjoyed this one. I honestly wasn’t sure what I would think when I read the synopsis of the book. It really wasn’t what I was expecting. I know you’re probably sitting there asking, well what did she expect. And honestly I can’t tell you, but i’m not sure what I was expecting myself, I just know that it wasn’t what i read. The book is so much better than I thought it was gonna be. I would be more than happy to buy another copy for my shelf or even for a friend so they can enjoy it too. I can’t wait to see what Natalia comes up with next. I’m never disappointed with her books.
Rating: You all know how my rating system is, but if not you can find an explanation Here I’m giving this book 3 Michelin Stars and 5 Regular Stars
Next Read: Well I’m torn on my next read. I tend to upadate my goodreads more than I do my blog, so I guess my next blog post will be a surprise. My next read however is The Lady of Rooksgrave Manor by Kathryn Moon
The cove itself was small, but beautiful, filled with fine golden sand. Ellie had always heard that Cornwall was romantic, and now she could see why. There was something wild and magical about the turquoise blue sea and the grey-black cliffs that hinted at the shadows of caves under the tide line. Shading her eyes from the sun, Ellie wondered if it would be enough to make her forget what had brought her here…
Ellie McTavish’s world turns upside down when a deadly diagnosis comes out of nowhere. Feeling adrift as she recovers from life-saving surgery at home, she impulsively bids on a vintage caravan, only to discover the next day that she’s won it. So she grabs her friend Fee and takes it on an impromptu road trip… well, that’s the plan, until it breaks down outside the tiny village of Magpie Cove in Cornwall.
Unexpectedly stranded, the two women don’t have much choice but to stay there until it’s fixed. At least the local mechanic, Mark, is distractingly handsome. Not that Ellie would ever act on her feelings – after the surgery she’s not sure she’ll ever feel beautiful again. If only she’d stop running into him everywhere in town…
As Ellie settles into life in Magpie Cove – even daring to swim in the icy sea with a group of local women each morning – she can feel herself slowly healing. But just as she begins to let herself grow closer to Mark, a midnight attack on her rented beach house once more puts Ellie’s fragile courage to the test. Sometimes the deepest scars are on the inside – will Magpie Cove be able to mend Ellie once and for all?
A perfect, feel-good page-turner about friendship, love and the power of starting over, set in gorgeous Cornwall. Perfect for fans of Shari Low, Veronica Henry and Heidi Swain.
Review: I really loved this book. It was such a cute and heartwarming read. At first I didn’t realize it was the fourth book in a series so I’m defintely going to have to go back and read books 1-3 but I really loved this book. I’m not sure if I could pick a favorite part or not and I don’t even want to try. Because the book was so good I didn’t want to put it down at all!!
Rating: By now you all know my rating system but of your new I rate by Michelin stars and then will give a regular rating . I give this book 3 Michelin stars and 5 regular stars.
Author Bio:
Kennedy Kerr is a British fiction author. She adores beaches, lochs and stone circles, and loves writing aboutsmall communities, mysteries and family secrets. She has a very cuddly cat called Twinkle who spends her days sleeping: Kennedy aspires to having Twinkle’s nap schedule one day.
Kennedy also loves cooking and baking all types of food, which is almost as much fun as eating it. Her favourite foods include (but are not limited to) Indian food, Victoria sponge, breakfast pastries with coffee and sushi. The only thing she’s not particularly keen on is artichoke, and she’d eat it, anyway
Falling Into Magic Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic Series Book 1 by Elizabeth Pantley Genre: Magical Cozy Mystery
When Hayden was a child, she lost her cat. Adults told her the cat ran away, but she knew the truth. The mirror had taken her. She knew because the mirror had given her a glimpse of an alternate world and had nearly pulled her in, so she was certain the cat had suffered that fate. Twenty years later Hayden discovers the secret of the mirror when she is thrust into it. She learns of a world she never knew existed, and a family she never knew she had. But danger brought her here, and it followed her. Now, Hayden is on a mission to remove the threat, so that she can begin her magical, meaningful new life in this enchanted world. “A magical, delightful tale that held my attention with a quirky cast of characters, engaging dialogue, a pleasantly appealing universe, and an intriguing plotline that I could not put down. I can’t wait to see where we go with Hayden’s next adventure.” — Dru Ann, MWA Raven Award winner, http://www.drusbookmusing.com “What a captivating read! . . . I couldn’t put it down. A great story, full of interesting people and places to get to know, with surprises around every corner.” — Linda C. Goodreads reviewer “The world- building and magic system is fascinating. Destiny Falls is a wondrous place that seems to cater to citizens’ wants and needs. I love that it is almost a character in its own right, and I was intrigued by the constantly changing world. Vivid imagery paints a clear picture of Destiny falls and its inhabitants. Falling into Magic is a dynamic introduction to the Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic series.” — Julie Petitbon http://www.onebookmore.com/ “Finally! An author who manages to pin the Disney/Hallmark magic down on paper.” – Mareli & Elza, https://elzareads.blogspot.com/ “This is no run- of-the-mill paranormal book! Unique ideas. You will be glad this is a series!” – Susan G., Amazon reviewer **Only .99 cents until Mar 22nd!!**Goodreads * Amazon
The Disappearance of Emily Destiny Falls Mystery & Magic Series Book 2
Hayden fell through a mirror and was thrust into an alternate, magical place. Destiny Falls is not on any map and is home to a family she never knew she had. The town is enchanted and charming, but something is amiss. She gets an ominous warning, and the promise of a package. Once it arrives, someone turns up dead and there are too many other suspicious episodes to call them coincidences. All signs point to the mysterious disappearance of her mother – way back when Hayden was just two days old. Can she identify and eliminate the threat before another person in her life is stolen away? “A magical, delightful tale that held my attention.” ~ Dru Ann, Dru’s Book Musings “A captivating read! I couldn’t put it down.” ~ Linda C., Goodreads “I felt transported to Destiny Falls…now that I’ve finished, I miss it already.” ~ Julie, One Book More “A mix of unique characters, romance, mystery and magic.” ~ Charlene Q. Goodreads “I had a fun time reading this one.” ~ Lola, Lola’s Reviews “Just when I thought I knew who the killer was, BAM, a twist.” ~ Leslie, Storeybook Reviews “Really stretched my imagination!” ~ Betty, Reading is my Passion “Funny, fluffy, far-fetched, and fabulous!” ~ Elza Reads “Generously seasoned with sass, class, and a dose of spunk. Delish!” ~ Pages & Paws Goodreads * Amazon
Review: personally I love cozy mysteries and this one is such a good one to pick up. Both books one and two are fantastic. I couldn’t put them down. It didn’t take me long to read them at all. I would most definitely suggest reading them if you like mysteries or even cozy mysteries and magic. If there’s going to be a third one or already is I can’t wait to pick that one up as well. I give both books 5 stars. If you have the time you should definitely pick these books up and read them. You won’t regret it if you do.
Elizabeth Pantley is the international bestselling author of The No-Cry Sleep Solution and twelve other books for parents, published in over twenty languages. The Disappearance of Emily is the second book in her well-received fiction series. Elizabeth lives in the Pacific Northwest and is the mother of four and Nana to one. Visit her at nocrysolution.com Website * Blog * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads
Follow the tour HEREfor special content and a giveaway!
Kitty Swag Pack (US only) , $10 Amazon + ebook of Falling Into Magic (WW) – 1 winner each! a Rafflecopter giveaway
The Girl in the Storm A Season of Angels Book 1 by Christopher Stanfield Genre: YA Supernatural Thriller, Mystery
Seventeen-year old Genevieve Reidell loves to paint, and values her closest friends above all, but when a gunman terrorizes her high school, her near- reckless bravery sets her on a path that will change the entire course of her life. Her best friend is shot and dying but when Genevieve holds her, the bleeding stops and the wounds close. But when she tries to save another friend, she can’t. Overcome with guilt Genevieve struggles to understand. But when a stranger arrives at her home with a mysterious book and an ominous warning, she learns about her destiny. Angels have protected her, but the time has come to unravel the mysteries that have haunted her for years. Genevieve must learn to harness and control her gifts and accept that whatever she does might not be enough. The Devil must be stopped, and Genevieve is ready to walk into the storm. She’s cheated death before, but can she save herself again without losing those she loves? **Only .99 cents until the end of March!**Goodreads * Amazonhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/Mu0v4exLrHo
She Hunts in Shadow A Season of Angels Novella
What comes after the Storm? The Hunt. Genevieve’s simple life has been undone. In the wake of her fateful choice, one thing remains clear: Lucifer Morningstar must be stopped and Hell ripped beyond his reach. But to do so she’ll need a soul who knows the fetid hellscape. A Demon must be sent. A Demon she can trust. All she has to do, is find him. There are mysteries to unravel, secrets to confront and allies in the strangest places. She knows what must be done, even if it means trusting a red- haired Demon with a sharp tongue and an annoying habit of killing first and asking questions later. It’s a daring gamble, but with Lucifer scheming in the shadows, it may be the only play she has to make. The War for Souls will soon commence, but before it does, the hunt begins. Goodreads * Amazon
The Woman in Darkness A Season of Angels Book 2
The War for Souls has just begun, but time is already running out… In the wake of one tragic, fateful night, Genevieve leaves behind every aspect of her simple life, including her name. Now she’s known as Lilith, and with the memories of her erased from those she loved, it’s as if she never existed. As she seeks her new purpose, dreams of a sad, broken woman with raven hair— a woman in a place more terrible than nightmares— continue to haunt her. Madeline is a fractured soul trapped in Hell after taking her own life. Lilith believes this stranger may be the key to shattering Lucifer’s hold over that frightful realm. But to find Madeline she’ll need a soul who knows the fetid hellscape. A Demon has been sent. But he must first brave the dark of Hell and survive the madness in himself. While Lilith sets her daring game in motion, Lucifer plots a scheme that will determine the fate of all souls, both living and in death. Lilith must get to Madeline, fast. For if she fails, there will be no end to the darkness Lucifer will bring. Goodreads * Amazonhttps://www.youtube.com/embed/vPbNKaIKxxE
Review for all three:
First off thank you to the publisher and authors for the an ebook copy of all three books. All three of these books are fantastic. I’m not even sure where to begin my review. I definitely found some new favorite books. Genevieve is my new favorite character out of any books I’ve read recently. The way she handles things is different then what I’ve seen before and I love it. If you all love books about angels and other things like that make sure to check out all three of these books. You won’t regret it.
I’d rate all three of these books 4.5-5 stars depending on how you feel about certain things. They are most definitely worth a read though, so be sure to pick them up if you can.
Christopher Stanfield is a West Texas native whose love of writing began at the age of fourteen, when inspired by a love of mythology, science fiction and fantasy, he began writing stories by hand whenever the time could be spared. After high school and a brief flirtation with college, he would spend the next eighteen years cultivating a career in Information Security at a small community bank located in his own hometown. But even then, his love of writing endured, and while dreams of characters and stories continued to occupy his imagination, he found an outlet for that creative muse by creating advertising copy for his employer. Through challenges and distractions, hard choices and the rudimentary demands of life, the dream of telling stories never waned. It was and ever remains more than merely a career. With that in mind, he enrolled in the BA Creative Writing program at Southern New Hampshire University, with an eye towards honing his craft and expanding upon his knowledge of the industry so that he might one achieve his dream of becoming published. Website * Facebook * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads
Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway! $10 Amazon, ebook of choice from author – 1 winner each! a Rafflecopter giveaway
Shame on me!! I’ve been missing for awhile I know, but life as a mommy to two under two is hectic at times. My second was born literally one day before my first born. It’s hard sometimes but a lot of the times they play and are happy with just being in the same room as me. My first pregnancy was extremely scary and I don’t remember much about it to be honest. I just remember waking up in the middle of the night saying something was wrong with the baby. Turns out I was super sick and had hellp syndrome. They had to do an emergency csection that night. My second one wasn’t bad at all, I was able to have my VBAC but with two I barely had time to read. Now I’m getting more time so I’m hoping to have something up soon.
Anyways i have some treats lined up for guys. I just downloaded all of the wizard of Oz books the other night so reviews on them will be coming as soon as I can get a full one read. I’m also reading A White Wind Blew on Libby. I love going to the library and would honestly prefer a physical copy to read, but with this mess going on I’m stuck with ebooks or books I have on my shelf.
I also have several ARCS I need to get read, but it always seems that something gets in the way. I will definitely try to read one or two of those in the near future. I seem to have lost my notebook where I had my reviews written down, although I think most of them are already on this site anyways, but still I have to go hunt that down and it’s going to be a right pain in my butt to do that😭
In other fun facts I’m currently working on writing my own original story and it’s up on wattpad, well at least the dedication and all of that plus the first two chapters. I’m posting it chapter by chapter so it could take a long time for me to get it binge readable but if you like scary stuff then let me know and I’ll consider posting the link here for you all.
Anyways I hope you guys are enjoying your quarantine time, I know I’m not. There’s only so much of staying at home I can do before I go absolutely crazy. I’ll try to be good and update every so often here. You guys may have to help me remember to post an update though.
“Too many twists and turns to easily share about this book. Nevertheless, Carr has pulled off another “hit” that kept me reading in one setting until the clues were so well together that the villain fell into our laps…or Chris’s, LOL Carr has put a lot into the book beyond the mysteries this time…Characters enjoyed chocotinis, visited book stores…and even blundered into getting engaged (the ring had been purchased 4 months ago)… But, for me, a special thank you for the political spoof at a time when politics at the national level is devastating, gave me a laugh and lightened the load of it all!” – Review by Glenda Bixler, Book Reader’s Heaven
Book Details: Book Title: The Last Thing She Said (A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery #3) by Lauren Carr
Category: Adult Fiction (18 +), 386 pages
Genre: Mystery
Publisher: Acorn Book Services
Release date: July 22, 2019
Formats available for purchase: paperback, ebook, audiobook (audible & itunes)
Tour dates: October 7 to November 15, 2019
Content Rating: PG-13 (Lauren Carr’s books are murder mysteries, so there are murders involved. Occasionally, a murder will happen on stage. There is sexual content, but always behind closed doors. Some mild swearing (a hell or a damn few and far between). No F-bombs
Book Description: “I’m working on the greatest mystery ever,” was the last thing noted mystery novelist Mercedes Livingston said to seven-year-old Chris Matheson before walking out of Hill House Hotel never to be seen again. For decades, the writer’s fate remained a puzzling mystery until an autographed novel and a letter put a grown-up Chris Matheson on the trail of a cunning killer. With the help of a team of fellow retired law enforcement officers, each a specialist in their own field of investigation, Chris puts a flame to this cold case to uncover what had really happened that night Mercedes Livingston walked out of Hill House Hotel. Watch out! The clues are getting hot!
Buy the Book: Amazon.com
* Add to Goodreads You may also choose to read and review:
Book Details: Book Title: Winter Frost (A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery #2) by Lauren Carr
Category: Adult fiction, 332 pages
Genre: Mystery
Publisher: Acorn Book Services Release date: January 22, 2019
Formats available for purchase: paperback, ebook, audiobook (audible & itunes)
Tour dates: October 7 to November 22, 2019
Content Rating: PG-13 (Lauren Carr’s books are murder mysteries, so there are murders involved. Occasionally, a murder will happen on stage. There is sexual content, but always behind closed doors. Some mild swearing (a hell or a damn few and far between). No F-bombs!
“Filled with twists and turns, Winter Frost reads perfectly well as a stand-alone, although it is part of a series. The author creates tension and suspense throughout by keeping the reader guessing; she keeps readers engaged with well fleshed out characters and a dash of humor. Sterling, the retired German Shepherd police dog turned card shark, is a new favorite. As the story flows, the truth unfolds, layer by layer, leading to a satisfying conclusion.
“Winter Frost was an entertaining, at times humorous read with suspense, some surprises, and even cute animals in the mix.” Review of Winter Frost by The iRead Review
Book Description: It all started with a chance encounter in the city with Blair, his late wife. Chris Matheson and the Geezer Squad, working under the guise of a book club, dig into the events surrounding his late wife’s supposed death halfway around the globe. A state department employee shoots himself in the back three times. A CIA operative goes missing. A woman is targeted by an international assassin three years after being declared dead in a terrorist attack overseas. Nothing is as it seems. In his most personal cold case, Chris fights to uncover why the state department told him that Blair, the mother of his children, had been killed when she was alive. What had she uncovered that has made her a target? Who terrified her so much that she had gone into hiding and why are they now after him? Buy the Book: Amazon.com
* Audible Add to Goodreads
Book Details: Book Title: ICE (A Chris Matheson Cold Case Mystery #1) by Lauren Carr
Category: Adult fiction, 364 pages
Genre: Mystery
Publisher: Acorn Book Services
Release date: February 26, 2018
Formats available for purchase: paperback, ebook, audiobook (audible & itunes)
Tour dates: October 7 to November 22, 2019
Content Rating: PG-13 (Lauren Carr’s books are murder mysteries, so there are murders involved. Occasionally, a murder will happen on stage. There is sexual content, but always behind closed doors. Some mild swearing (a hell or a damn few and far between). No F-bombs!
“ICE is a strong start to a new series that will have fans of Lauren Carr thrilled to be introduced to another set of memorable and entertaining characters. Carr’s Geezer Squad has brought sexy back to mature men and women, whose kickass attitude and smarts sizzle as they melt the clues to those cold cases!” Laura Fabiani, Library of Clean Reads
“For the whodunit mystery buff who loves ever-increasing suspense and danger, Lauren Carr’s newest series offers up a big dose of both. Murder and mayhem seem to be Chris’s new companions after returning home following the loss of both his wife and his father. Juggling the parenting responsibilities of his three daughters with his mother is not something Chris was expecting at this point in his life, but life isn’t something that goes as planned.” 5-Star Review at Blooming with Books
Book Description: When Sandy Lipton and her unborn child disappeared, the court of public opinion found young Chris Matheson guilty. Decades later, the retired FBI agent returns home to discover that the cloud of suspicion cast over him and his family has never lifted. With the help of a team of fellow retired law enforcement officers, each a specialist in their own field of investigation, Chris Matheson starts chipping away at the ice on this cold case to uncover what had happened to Sandy and her baby and the clues are getting hot!
Buy the Book: Amazon.com
* Audible Add to Goodreads
Meet the Author: Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Thorny Rose, Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Chris Matheson Cold Case Mysteries—over twenty titles across four fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns! Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, crime fiction, police procedurals, romance, and humor. Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and two spoiled rotten German shepherds on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.
Connect with the author: Website ~ Twitter ~ Facebook ~ Instagram
BOOK TOUR SCHEDULE: Oct 7 – Working Mommy Journal – book review of The Last Thing She Said
Oct 7 – JB’s Bookworms with Brandy Mulder – book review of Ice / giveaway
Oct 7 – Bookriot – audiobook review of Ice / giveaway
Oct 7 – Just Another Reader – book review of Ice
Oct 7 – Rita’s Reading Room – series spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Oct 7 – Viviana MacKade – series spotlight / guest post
Oct 8 – Just Another Reader – book review of Winter Frost
Oct 8 – JB’s Bookworms with Brandy Mulder – book review of Winter Frost / giveaway
Oct 8 – Amy’s Booket List – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Oct 8 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review of The Last Thing She Said / guest post / giveaway
Oct 9 – Cuzinlogic – series spotlight / giveaway
Oct 9 – JB’s Bookworms with Brandy Mulder – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Oct 9 – Just Another Reader – book review of The Last Thing She Said
Oct 9 – The Voracious Bibliophile – book review of The Last Thing She Said
Oct 10 – Librorum in Sempiternum – book review of Ice / giveaway
Oct 11 – It’s All About the Book – book review of The Last Thing She Said
Oct 14 – b for bookreview – series spotlight / author interview
Oct 15 – Buried Under Books – audiobook review of Ice / giveaway
Oct 15 – Pause for Tales – book review of The Last Thing She Said
Oct 16 – Locks, Hooks and Books – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / guest post / giveaway
Oct 17 – Library of Clean Reads – series spotlight / giveaway
Oct 18 – Library of Clean Reads – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Oct 19 – Bookriot – audiobook review of Winter Frost / giveaway
Oct 20 – Librorum in Sempiternum – book review of Winter Frost / giveaway
Oct 21 – Hall Ways Blog – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Oct 21 – Words And Peace – book spotlight / giveaway
Oct 22 – Kristin’s Novel Café – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said
Oct 23 – Mystery Suspense Reviews – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / guest post
Oct 24 – Haddie’s Haven – audiobook review of Ice / giveaway
Oct 24 – FUONLYKNEW – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Oct 24 – My Journey Back – series spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Oct 25 – Blooming with Books – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Oct 25 – StoreyBook Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Oct 26 – Bookriot – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Oct 28 – Sefina Hawke’s Books – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said
Oct 29 – Buried Under Books – audiobook review of The Last Thing she Said / giveaway
Oct 29 – My Reading Journeys – book review of Winter Frost / giveaway
Oct 30 – Elizabeth McKenna – Author – book spotlight of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Oct 31 – Dab of Darkness Book Reviews – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 1 – Life as Leels – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 4 – Books for Books – audiobook review of Ice / giveaway
Nov 5 – Bound 4 Escape – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 6 – fundinmental – book review of Winter Frost / giveaway
Nov 6 – My Reading Journeys – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 7 – Haddie’s Haven – audiobook review of Winter Frost / giveaway
Nov 8 – Literary Flits – series spotlight / giveaway
Nov 11 – The Avid Inspri – book review of Ice / giveaway
Nov 11 – Books for Books – audiobook review of Winter Frost / giveaway
Nov 12 – Librorum in Sempiternum – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 13 – Celticlady’s Reviews – book spotlight / giveaway
Nov 13 – A Fountain of Books – book review of The Last Thing She Said / guest post / giveaway
Nov 14 – T’s Stuff – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / author interview / giveaway
Nov 15 – The Avid Inspri – book review of Winter Frost / giveaway
Nov 15 – Nighttime Reading Center – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 18 – Laura’s Interests – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / guest post / giveaway
Nov 18 – Books for Books – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 19 – JBronder Book Reviews – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said
Nov 19 – Shalini’s Books & Reviews – book review of The Last Thing She Said
Nov 20 – fundinmental – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 20 – Haddie’s Haven – audiobook review of The Last Thing She Said / guest post / giveaway
Nov 20 – I’m All About Books – book review of The Last Thing She Said / guest post / giveaway
Nov 20 – Svetlana’s reads and views – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 21 – Books Are Love – book review of The Last Thing She Said / author interview / giveaway
Nov 21 – The Avid Inspri – book review of The Last Thing She Said / guest post / giveaway
Nov 22 – Adventurous Jessy – book review of The Last Thing She Said / giveaway
Nov 22 – SammieReadsBook – book review of The Last Thing She Said / author interview / giveaway
I don’t even have any words for how fantastic this book is. It kept me on the edge of my seat just like the others did. If you love murder mysteries then this series is most definitely for you. I felt like I could connect to some of the characters throughout each book. I can’t say enough good things about these books or this author. I will definitely be picking up more of Lauren Carr’s books in the future. I don’t want to give away any spoilers so I think it’s best that I leave this review the way it is right now and go on and rate the book.
I am going to go ahead and give this book 5 stars like I did for the other two. I enjoyed this series very much and can’t wait to read more by the author. I hope that if any of you guys pick these books up you enjoy them as much as I did.
First off i meant to post this morning but I got extremely sidetracked. I had to go in and pick up some eat drops for my 5 month old. Poor little guy had to get tubes put in yesterday. Anyways thank you to the author for sending a copy of this book for me to review.
Summary:
It all started with a chance encounter in the city with Blair, his late wife.
Chris Matheson and the Geezer Squad, working under the guise of a book club, dig into the events surrounding his late wife’s supposed death halfway around the globe. A state department employee shoots himself in the back three times. A CIA operative goes missing. A woman is targeted by an international assassin three years after being declared dead in a terrorist attack overseas.
Nothing is as it seems.
In his most personal cold case, Chris fights to uncover why the state department told him that Blair, the mother of his children, had been killed when she was alive. What had she uncovered that has made her a target? Who terrified her so much that she had gone into hiding and why are they now after him?
Review: Much like the first book in this series I couldn’t put this one down. I couldn’t wait to find out the ending. I may or may not have skipped ahead at some parts. Don’t fret though cause I did go back and read the whole book cover to cover. I really don’t know how to describe this book. I love mysteries and this one is another fantastic read. Lauren Carr knows exactly how to keep her readers hooked.
Now time to rate the book. Honestly i give this book five stars. I don’t even know how to put into words my feelings about this book series. I definitely enjoy reading them and will continue to enjoy reading many many more. If you love mysteries then these series is most definitely one you will have to pick up!!
Author bio:
Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty titles across three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!
Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, romance, and humor.
Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.
Chapter count: 32 counting the prologue and epilogue
Format: Ebook
Genres: Mystery, Fiction
Setting: Charles Town West Virgina
Published: 2018
Publisher: Acorn Book Services
Summary:
When Sandy Lipton and her unborn child disappeared, the court of public opinion found young Chris Matheson guilty. Decades later, the retired FBI agent returns home to discover that the cloud of suspicion cast over him and his family has never lifted.
With the help of a team of fellow retired law enforcement officers, each a specialist in their own field of investigation, Chris Matheson starts chipping away at the ice on this cold case to uncover what had happened to Sandy and her baby and the clues are getting hot!
Disclaimer: First and foremost i would like to thank the publishers and the author for giving me a chance to review this book, so thank you for the opportunity. I really did enjoy the book and can’t wait to finish the series.
Review and Rating:
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first opened the book. After checking out the information on the cast of characters I started to read. I couldn’t wait to find out just what was going on. The suspense was killing me, I could hardly put the book down. Since I have two little ones under two I did have to put it down eventually, but I kept going back. I feel like this is a book that I will keep coming back too to reread all the time.
I found myself connecting to the characters and wondering just what was going to happen next. I’m not even sure if I could pick out a favorite part for you guys. I definitely can’t pick out any quotes as that’s all my review would be filled with if I did. I liked so many, it’s hard to just pick a few. The author wove a wonderful mystery for her readers and I definitely can’t wait to do a review on the next two in the series for you all.
You guys know my normal rating system but as this is for a blog tour I will give the book a normal rating too. I normally base my ratings on the Michelin Star system, but today I guess the book gets two ratings.
The first rating would be a 3 stars for my rating system. I rated it a three because I definitely think it’s one of those books that people need to stop and pick up if they get the chance. For a normal rating I would give it a 5 stars. It’s a fantastic read and if you love mystery’s then you will definitely love this book. I find myself wanting to go back and reread it constantly.
Author Bio:
Lauren Carr is the international best-selling author of the Mac Faraday, Lovers in Crime, and Thorny Rose Mysteries—over twenty titles across three fast-paced mystery series filled with twists and turns!
Book reviewers and readers alike rave about how Lauren Carr’s seamlessly crosses genres to include mystery, suspense, romance, and humor.
Lauren is a popular speaker who has made appearances at schools, youth groups, and on author panels at conventions. She lives with her husband, and three dogs on a mountain in Harpers Ferry, WV.
Odette is the sixth novel by the author, music critic and librettist Jessica Duchen.
• It has been 26 years in the making.
• It is ideal for the Christmas season and its action takes place in December.
• A wide audience knows and loves Swan Lake. This book brings the ballet’s heroine to life in our own world.
• An unusual, whimsical book, magical realist with romance, music, humour and a feminist twist.
• Likely to attract young adult readers as well as an adult readership, especially those who enjoy the magical stories of Joanne Harris, Philip Pullman and JK Rowling.
• Could be described as Swan Lake meets Bridget Jones meets A Christmas Carol.
• A positive, uplifting story about friendship, love, loyalty and empathy.
• Deals at an oblique angle with contemporary issues including homelessness, exploitation, illegal immigrants and integration.
SYNOPSIS When a swan crashes through her window at the height of a winter storm, Mitzi Fairweather decides to nurse the injured bird back to health. At sunset, though, it becomes a human being.
This unexpected visitor is Odette, the swan princess – alone, in danger and adrift in 21st-century Britain, dependent on the kindness of strangers. Bird by day, woman by night, with no way to go home to Russia, she remains convinced that only a man’s vow of eternal love can break her spell.
Mitzi is determined to help Odette, but as the two try to hide the improbable truth, their web of deception grows increasingly tangled…
A contemporary twist on Swan Lake, Odette asks – in the best tradition of fairy tales – whether against all the odds, hope, empathy and humanity can win the day.
A narrated concert based on ODETTE is in the planning stages with the award-winning violinist Fenella Humphreys. pianist Viv McLean and Jessica as narrator. Music will include a celebration of Tchaikovsky’s magical score for Swan Lake, plusworks byChopin, Liszt and Gershwin. The first performances will be at Music at Mansfield Street, London W1, 17 April 2019 and St Mary’s, Perivale, 27 April 2019.
Review: Ever since i was little Swan Lake had been my aabsolute favorite story. I’ve always wanted to see the ballet and maybe one day i will. For now though i read books and watch movies about Swan Lake. My favorite as a kid was the cartoon the Swan Princess, and i have a barbie movir Swan Lake. Anyways this story is one of my favorites and this book quickyly dug a place into my heart. I woulf recommend anyone that loves swan lake or fairytales in general to pick this book up. Personally i couldnt put it down.
Rating: Like always im giving two ratings since this is a blog tour read. My rating on my rating system i use would be 3 stars. On a regular system i give this book 5 stars.
JESSICA DUCHEN- BIOGRAPHY
Jessica Duchen is an acclaimed author and journalist, specialising in words for, with and about music. Her work has appeared in The Independent, The Guardian and The Sunday Times, plus numerous magazines around the world. Her first five novels have gathered a loyal fan-base and wide acclaim. Music plays a vital role in her books, and she frequently narrates concert versions of Alicia’s Gift, Hungarian Dances and Ghost Variations.
Jessica is the librettist for the opera Silver Birch by Roxanna Panufnik, commissioned by Garsington Opera and shortlisted for a 2018 International Opera Award. Current projects include the libretto for a youth opera with composer Paul Fincham for Garsington 2019 (an updating of an Oscar Wilde fairy tale) and two large-scale choral works with Roxanna Panufnik.
She was born within the sound of Bow Bells, studied music at Cambridge and held editorial posts on several music magazines before going freelance to concentrate on writing. She edited a piano magazine for five years and was then classical music and ballet correspondent for The Independent from 2004-2016. Her output also includes plays, poetry, biographies of the composers Erich Wolfgang Korngold and Gabriel Fauré (published by Phaidon) and her popular classical music blog, JDCMB. She lives in London with her violinist husband and two cats. She enjoys playing the piano, cookery, long walks and obscure books about music.
PRAISE FOR JESSICA DUCHEN’S NOVELS AND LIBRETTOS
“A thrilling read” – John Suchet, The Daily Mail, ‘My Best Read’, Best Books of 2016
“Enthralling…Jessica writes with an unpredictable and original voice and a dazzling perceptiveness, and I was hooked from the first page. A sensational achievement.” – Joanna Lumley
“Jessica Duchen’s libretto is powerful and poetic” – Richard Morrison, The Times (on Silver Birch)
“It is very rarely that I find a new writer whose work I love so much.” – Katie Fforde
“Gripping…moving and uplifting” – BBC Music Magazine, Book of the Month
Jessica Duchen has music in her soul … and she uses the intrinsic harmonies that so patently instruct her own life as the inspiration for her clever and compassionate novels. – Lancashire Evening Post
Review: This book is absolutely fantastic. I have fallen in love with it and didnt want to put down my copy. Im not even sure if i could pick out a favorite scene from the book. There were so many that i could relate too or even loved. Much like other books i will have to pick this one up again and again. There was just no putting this book down.
Author bio:
slytherinbooklady 