Follow my Book Recommendations as November bids farewell, it's time to reflect on my literary journey that left an indelible mark on my imagination. From gripping narratives that kept me turning pages late into the night to fantasy books filled with magic, mythical creatures, and uncharted adventures, promising an escape beyond the bounds of reality. The books of November have been nothing short of a diverse literary feast. Whether it was the evocative prose of Lee Matthew Goldbergs latest novel or the compelling characters in The Orphan that kept me guessing until the very end, each book brought its own unique flavour to this month's reading experience. Join me as I delved into the worlds crafted by talented authors, sharing the highs, lows, and everything in between. I can say that November's reads have been a kaleidoscope of emotions, and I can't wait to unravel their stories in this month's book blog.
What was your favourite read this month?
Please let me know.
Love Alis x
Title: The Orphan
Author: S M Reeve
Genre: Crime, Thriller, Suspense
Series: Anna Croix Series Book 2 of 2
Date Published: 2023
Book Length: 330
Format: E reader I was supplied as part of the ARC team by the author in return for an honest opinion
Book Recommendations Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
Book Recommendations
About Book: A stalker. A drug dealer. A sex trafficker.Gumby and Napoleon.What do all these things have in common? They just made it to the top of Anna's list.Anna is impulsive, not suicidal. Most days. So, what would possess her to traipse across the country in hopes of infiltrating the cartel?Maybe it's been too long since she's chased someone down. Or maybe it's this ho-hum career Spike has saddled or with.Or maybe it's something else entirely ...Either way, her list of douche-mongers continues to grow, and they will be paid a visit.
My Thoughts: The Orphan by SM Reeve is the 2nd book in the Anna Croix series and although I was lucky enough to read the first book The Orphan can be read as a standalone book. Anna and Spike, the main protagonists, continue their journey as partners in work. Anna is feisty, determined, flawed but showing a little vulnerability despite her bravado and Spike is there to pick up the pieces and to try and keep Anna on the straight and narrow. I love them both. I became invested in their relationship all over again a testament to Reeves writing, she holds no punches in her descriptions which adds to the atmosphere. There are numerous storylines running alongside each other and to start with I did have to concentrate. There are elements of a bubbling romance, humour, sarcasm along with all the action packed, crime fighting drama. This book has it all. Reeves descriptive prose is a force to be reckoned with, I loved every word written. I didn’t want to put it down the action and drama were there until the very last page.
In conclusion this is a hard-hitting, action-packed thriller that will make you want to keep turning the pages until the very end. I didn’t want to put it down There is great character development, and the book is a must for lovers of action, mystery, suspense thrillers.
s
Title: The Threat Below
Author: J S Latshaw
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult
Series: Brathius Legacy Book 1
Publisher: Fernweh Books
Date Published: 2015
Book Length: 544
Format: E book supplied by the author in return for an honest review
Book Recommendations Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
Book Recommendations
About Book: She heard the legends. She knew the history. But nothing could have prepared her for what she found.
Three hundred years ago, a lethal and mysterious threat arose and pushed humanity to the brink of extinction. Now, a small remnant - the descendants of the few survivors who escaped the massacre below - lives above the clouds, atop a mountain. When they discover their water supply is being poisoned, an expedition, including seventeen-year-old Icelyn Brathius, must descend and face the horror that wiped out civilization centuries ago.
The danger is closer than you think. The shocking true nature of the Threat Below.
As Icelyn faces dangers in a world, humans are not meant to survive, she learns that not everything is as it seems, uncovers an ancient revelation, and faces a choice that will change the fate of everyone above and below the clouds. Will Icelyn be strong enough to survive - and bear a terrible secret?
My Thoughts: The Threat Below by JS Latshaw is aimed at reading age 12 -18, but I was supplied an e version of the book by the author in return for an honest review.
I have not read many fantasy books but my challenge to myself was to read a wider range of genres and authors, so, I accepted The Threat Below by JS Latshaw with an open mind and found myself liking the book once I had got my head around the names of the protagonists. The story is well written and the prose flows like a river, effortlessly carrying you through a rich tapestry of words. The story was interesting with age-appropriate questions. The characters are well developed and diverse seeing the world from different viewpoints all make an interesting and compelling read to find out what happens, all a testament to JS Latshaw’s writing.
In conclusion, the book was a pleasure to read with an interesting and captivating story and diverse points of view, and I would recommend the book to people who want a different viewpoint and who love fantasy.
Title: Clifford’s War
Author: J Dennison Read
Genre: Thriller, Suspense. Adventure
Publisher: Palmetto Publishing
Date Published: 2021
Book Length: 280
Format: E Book supplied by onlinebookclub in return for an honest review
Book Recommendations Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
Book Recommendations
About Book: In this page-turning suspense action novel, private investigator and military veteran Clifford Dee finds himself in deep trouble. After accepting jobs from an unrelenting local Mafia boss, Clifford is promoted from PI to hitman...without the option to refuse. His envious arch-rival will do anything to take Clifford down a peg and earn back the favour of the mob...even if it means paying the ultimate price. To find a way out of the Mafia's clutches, Clifford must make friendships and alliances in the most unlikely of places... and hopefully escape with his life intact.
My Thoughts: Clifford's War: without end by J. Dennison Read is another captivating novel that brings together elements of suspense, and drama. Dennison Reads ability with a gripping intensity, draws you into the world of each of the characters and keeps you wondering with the interesting plot twists. Dennison's writing style flows through the pages and is both eloquent and dynamic, making every page a pleasure to read. The author paints a vivid picture of the settings and the characters, again immersing you in the heart of Clifford's War.
What distinguishes this novel apart is its remarkable ability to seamlessly blend heart-pounding action with intricate investigative depth, providing readers with an exhilarating journey through the world of crime, the FBI and those that work for them undercover, where adrenaline-fueled pursuits are masterfully counterbalanced by the subtle complexities of a brilliant plot.
The pacing of the book is well-executed, keeping you wanting to know what happens next with twists and turns. The suspense builds steadily, and the climax delivers a satisfying resolution while leaving room for contemplation.
In conclusion, Clifford's War is a must-read for fans of suspense, and character-driven narratives. J. Dennison Read has crafted a compelling tale that resonates long after the last page is turned. I recommend this book to anyone seeking a riveting and thought-provoking experience and fans of suspense and adventure.
Title: The Great Gimmelmans
Author: Lee Matthew Goldberg
Genre: Mystery, Suspense
Publisher: Level Best Books
Date Published: 2023
Book Length: 392
Format: E Book suppled by henryroi publications in return for an honest reviewStar Book Recommendations Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
Book Recommendations
About Book: Middle child Aaron Gimmelman watches as his family goes from a mild-mannered reform Jewish clan to having over a million dollars of stolen money stuffed in their RV's cabinets while being pursued by the FBI and loan sharks. But it wasn't always like that. His father Barry made a killing as a stockbroker, his mother Judith loved her collection of expensive hats, his older sister Steph was obsessed with pop stars, and little sister Jenny loved her stuffed possum, Seymour.
After losing all their money in the Crash of 1987, the family starts stealing from convenience stores, but when they hit a bank, they realize the talent they possess. The money starts rolling in and brings the family closer together, whereas back at home, no one had any time for bonding due to their busy schedules. But Barry's desire for more, more, more will take its toll on the Gimmelmans, and Aaron is forced into an impossible choice: turn against his father, or let his family fall apart.
From Jersey, down to an Orthodox Jewish community in Florida where they hide out, and up to California, The Great Gimmelmans goes on a madcap ride through the 1980s. Filled with greed and love and the meaning of religion and tradition until the walls of the RV and the feds start closing in on the family, this thrilling literary tale mixes Michael Chabon and the Coen Brothers with equal parts humour and pathos.
My Thoughts: The Great Gimmelmans by Lee Matthew Goldberg is a tale about family dynamics with mystery and suspense thrown in, and the book gets off to a great start by drawing you in with its description’s. Its raw emotion is rare, you can feel every heartfelt word spoken. There is humour, sadness, and wit in abundance. The prose flows like a great river with ease but sometimes with fierce abandonment a testament to Goldbergs writing. The book had me encapsulated from the beginning to the very end with every word I read wondering what was coming next. as it captivates you with a unique and daring narrative that explores the boundaries of love, loyalty, and crime.
The heart of the story revolves around the enigmatic Jewish couple, whose complexities and flaws are expertly unravelled as they embark on an unexpected crime spree with their children in tow. Goldberg skilfully navigates the delicate balance between the criminal world and the challenges of maintaining a united family front.
What set "The Great Gimmelmans" apart was its ability to unsettle traditional genre expectations. The characters are not mere criminals, but multifaceted individuals driven by a compelling mix of desperation and devotion. The depth of the familial relationships added a layer of complexity that kept me emotionally invested throughout.
The suspenseful plot was masterfully crafted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me on the edge of my seat. The author's meticulous attention to detail painted a vivid picture of the various settings, immersing me in a world where every decision carried weight and consequences. I felt for the children so much during this read.
One of the novel's strengths lay in its exploration of cultural identity within the context of the story. The portrayal of the Gimmelman family's Jewish heritage is both authentic and respectful, adding an extra layer of richness to the narrative.
Beyond the gripping storyline, the prose is eloquent and evocative. The author's ability to convey the emotional complexity of the characters and the moral dilemmas they face is truly commendable. The dialogue is sharp, reflective of the very unique personalities within the Gimmelman family and the wider family and other individuals they encounter on their journey.
One of my favourite quotes in the book was " I steel myself as he and I travel on the way-back machine to hell, keying in the co-ordinates to our final destination".
In conclusion, "The Great Gimmelmans" is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking, genre-defying experience. It's a testament to Lee Matthew Goldbergs storytelling prowess, leaving you with lingering thoughts about the blurred lines between right and wrong, the resilience of family bonds, and the unpredictable nature of life's twists and turns. This book is a literary gem that deserves every bit of its five-star rating.
Title: The Lost Soul
Author: Lawrence E. Jayaraj
Genre: Fantasy
Series: Demigods of Pendilor Trilogy Book 1
Date Published: 2021
Book Length: 274
Format: E book supplied by the author in return for an honest review
Book Recommendations Star Rating: 4**** I Liked it a lot and recommend.
Book Recommendations
About Book: The Sun God Suriyar has two children with mortal Ourania; Assyri, a daughter, and Bolara, a son. As demigods, they have unique powers, and as royalty, they are positioned for greatness. Family dynamics are tested and boil over, as older daughter Assyri ascends the throne. Furious that his sister is in charge, Bolara plots to overthrow her and rule as a tyrant. Queen Assyri’s two children must learn to hone their abilities to combat the evil that is at hand, and in doing so, become sworn enemies of their own cousins, Bolara’s children, who have been taught to use their powers for ruthless domination, by the mighty General Thamios. A powerful story of betrayal, violence, passion, and finding one’s inner strength, with epic battles involving Dragons, Tolverines (a wolf like creature the size of an elephant), Lawky’s (a mystical bird with healing properties), and highly skilled demigods, with uncanny abilities. The stakes are high, and the action is compelling. The DemiGods of Pendilor are about to collide!
My Thoughts: The Lost Soul which is part of the Demigods of Pendilor Trilogy by Lawrence E Jayarag was supplied to me by the author in return for an honest review.
The Prologue has a lot of detail in it and helped me with the relationships in the story, for me a must read to hit the first page with full enjoyment, as I know many don’t read the prologues.
The descriptive prose flows with ease from the start and is a captivating journey into a richly imagined world filled with intricate characters that develop over time building a much more detailed picture. Jayarag skilfully weaves together elements of fantasy and adventure, that kept me engaged from start to finish. The depth of the demigods struggles, and the vivid descriptions made the narrative more immersive. However, while the pacing is generally well maintained, there were moments when a slightly quicker tempo would have added more excitement for me personally. Overall, a must read for fans of fantasy, offering a unique and enchanting experience and one I would recommend.
Title: 1888 The Ripper Revelation
Author: Andrew Hastie
Genre: Science Fiction, Time Travel, Historical
Series: The Infinity Engines Missions Book 2 of 2
Date Published: 2019
Book Length: 142
Format: E Book supplied by the Author in return for an honest review
Book Recommendations Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
Book Recommendations
About Book: It's 1888, the slums of London's East End are overrun with crime, disease and poverty. In the dark alleys of Whitechapel, a serial killer begins a killing spree, preying on prostitutes and leaving them horrifically mutilated. Detective Inspector Sabien is assigned to the case. A seasoned officer of the Protectorate, the temporal police force of the Oblivion Order, Sabien is tasked with tracking the down murderer.
Seconded to the nineteenth-century, the Inspector has a rare talent, the ability to travel through the timelines of the victims, giving him a 100% track record and earning him the nickname of 'Sherlock'. But this investigation is different, the Ripper seems to be able to hide from him, and as the body count begins to stack up, Sabien finds himself struggling to discover the killer's identity.
Infinity Engines: Missions takes you on a journey into an alternate history, one that might have been if it wasn’t for the work of the Oblivion Order and their mission to save the future, by changing the past.
My Thoughts: 1888 The Infinity Engines Missions book 2 by Andrew Hastie is a science fiction book mixed with history and time travel, a great mixture.
The book starts with short chapters which I think enhances the excitement of a book. The chapters do move back and forth in time which aids the explanation of the book from the very start. As I read through the prose felt truly sympathetic to the situation as it unfolded and enabled me to have a vivid picture of what it was like in my mind. Hastie’s meticulous research shines through providing an authentic backdrop for the adventures of the characters. The intricate plot twists and well-developed characters made the book a page turner for me, so much so I read it in one session. A book I would recommend to lovers of historical crime and time travel. I really enjoyed it.
Title: No Place to Die
Author: Jaden Skye
Genre: Romance, Mystery
Series: Murder in the keys Book 1
Date Published: 2017
Book Length: 114
Format: E book I purchased my self
Book Recommendations Star Rating: 4 **** I liked it a lot and recommend
Book Recommendations - About Book: Olivia and Todd, madly in love, fly down to Key West when Todd offers to take her on a surprise trip for a magical weekend. Though they have only been dating five months, Olivia can’t help but wonder if Todd is preparing to pop the big question along the beautiful shores.Yet Olivia’s paradise quickly turns to hell when Todd dies right before her eyes, in a tragic accident.Or was it?Olivia sinks further into the abyss as the police wonder if she did it, and finds herself backed into a corner, having to prove her innocence while finding out if Todd was truly murdered. Yet as she searches, entering the underbelly of Key West, forced to deal with unsavory locals and with Todd’s difficult and grieving family, she discovers things about Todd that she wished she never knew—discoveries that make her realize that she never really knew the man she loved at all.
My Thoughts: No Place to Die" by Jaden Skye is a rollercoaster of suspense that keeps you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. Skye's storytelling prowess shines through, creating a gripping atmosphere that made it difficult for me to put the book down.
The plot is a labyrinth of twists and turns, with unexpected developments around every corner. Skye masterfully weaves a complex web of mystery, keeping me guessing until the very last page. The pacing is relentless, maintaining a sense of urgency that adds to the overall tension.
The characters are well-crafted and multidimensional, each with their own secrets and motivations. The protagonist is a strong and compelling lead, and the supporting cast adds depth to the narrative. Skye skillfully develops the relationships between characters, creating a web of connections that enhances the overall intrigue.
The author's descriptive prose brings the settings to life, from the chilling crime scenes to the tense investigative moments. The vivid imagery and attention to detail contribute to the overall immersive experience, allowing readers to visualize the unfolding events with cinematic clarity.
While the story is undeniably engaging, there are moments where the pacing becomes slightly rushed, leaving some questions unanswered. A bit more depth in certain areas could have added further richness to the narrative.
Overall, "No Place to Die" is a thrilling ride through a maze of suspense and mystery. Jaden Skye's ability to keep you guessing and the well-crafted characters make this a standout thriller. Despite a few minor pacing issues, the book delivers a satisfying and unpredictable conclusion, leaving readers eager for more from this talented author.
Title: Watership Down
Author: Richard Adams
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Puffin
Date Published: 2023 (my version)
Book Length: 640
Book Recommendations Format: Hardback I purchased mysel
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
Book Recommendations - About Book: Fiver is very worried. He senses something terrible is about to happen to the warren, the only home he's ever known. While the other rabbits ignore him, his big brother Hazel knows that Fiver's instincts are always right...They must leave immediately.Fiver leads the rabbits on a thrilling quest through the human world to their new home, Watership Down, where they must work together to overcome their biggest challenge yet.
My Thoughts: Watership Down by Richard Adams is an absolute masterpiece that transcends generational boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on the soul. This timeless epic weaves a tapestry of courage, friendship, and the triumph of the human (or should I say rabbit) spirit.
The heart of the novel lies in the vividly depicted world of the rabbits, each with their own distinct personalities and challenges. Adams brings these characters to life with such depth and authenticity that I found myself emotionally invested in their journey from the first page. The protagonist, Hazel, emerges as an emblem of resilience and leadership, navigating the dangers of the unknown with an unwavering determination that is both inspiring and heartwarming.
The narrative unfolds like a rich tapestry, blending elements of folklore, adventure, and philosophical contemplation. Adams' ability to seamlessly interweave intricate details about rabbit society with broader themes of courage, loyalty, and the pursuit of a better life is nothing short of brilliant. The world-building is immersive, and the lush descriptions of the English countryside evoke a sense of both wonder and danger.
What truly sets this book apart is its universal appeal. While ostensibly a story about rabbits, the themes explored—friendship, survival, the search for a home—are deeply human. The exploration of morality, governance, and the consequences of environmental disruption adds layers of complexity that make Watership Down resonate on multiple levels.
Adams' prose is both elegant and accessible, making it a joy to read for people of all ages. The pacing is perfect, with moments of tension and introspection expertly balanced. The language, though simple, carries a profound weight that lingers long after the last page is turned.
In summary, Watership Down is not just a novel; it's an experience. A literary gem that stands the test of time, it's a tale of triumph over adversity, of friendship and sacrifice. If you haven't embarked on this journey with Hazel and his companions, do yourself a favour and dive into the warren. It's a literary adventure you won't soon forget
Title: A Source of Blisters
Author: R.A. Lynn Lonewalker
Genre: Historical Crime, Mystery, Thriller
Series: A Viktorya Regent Novel
Publisher: Write My Wrongss
Date Published: 2022
Book Length: 258
Book Recommendations Format: E Book supplied by the author in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
Book Recommendations - About Book: It’s not every day the town of Armageddon, New Mexico, receives a visitor—especially not one like Viktorya.As an ancient Regent of Justice, armed with her Widowmakers and riding a Warhorse, Viktorya is there on a mission: to rescue a boy whose last hope lies in a goddess’s promise. And to do it, she’ll rain hell down on those who have evaded justice for too long.With unlikely friends watching her back and dangerous enemies gunning for her head, it will take all of her training to stay one step ahead of corrupt cops, trigger-happy assassins, and two rival gangs.
The road to delivering justice is a bloody one, but Viktorya will stop at nothing to save the innocent and destroy the wicked. She once needed saving herself, after all; it’s her turn to defend those who can’t stand up for themselves.
One thing’s for sure—Armageddon will certainly live up to its name.
My Thoughts: A Source of Blisters by RA Lynn LoneWalker starts as it means to go on with vivid descriptions, but beware this is a hard-hitting book about justice.
The prose leaves little to the imagination as I read through the, a testament to RA Lynn LoneWalkers ability.
The twists and turns throughout the chapters made for an exciting read as I wanted to know what would happen next and how the story would culminate, although I had guessed at the ending which was why it got 4 stars and not 5. As the story unfolds it is a cross between fantasy/justice/western with action packed scenes and I did take a liking to the main protagonist, although she had many flaws when it came to justice. I also enjoyed some of the people she met along the way like Hazel and Roscoe who were trying to live in this crazy town.
In Conclusion a hard hitting action packed vivid description of one persons aim for justice in this small town that will leave nothing to the imagination a book I found myself enjoying and recommend if you love action packed thrillers with a light touch of fantasy.
If any of my book recommendations have inspired you to purchase them please click on the links provided, I do earn a small commission from you purchasing and thank you from the bottom of my heart. If you would like to contact me, you can via email at apagebookclub@gmail.com or via instagram at https://instagram.com/alisbookstagram-
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