Changeling (The Oddmire 1) by William Ritter | Blog Tour | Review

About Changeling
Magic is fading from the Wild Wood. To renew it, goblins must perform an ancient ritual involving the rarest of their kind—a newborn changeling. But when the fateful night arrives to trade
a human baby for a goblin one, the goblin Kull is briefly distracted from his task of laying the changeling in a human infant’s crib. By the time he turns back, the changeling has already perfectly mimicked the human child. Not knowing which to return to the goblin horde, he leaves both babies behind.
Tinn and Cole are raised as human twins, neither knowing what secrets may be buried deep inside one of them. When a mysterious message arrives calling the brothers to be heroes and protectors of magic, the boys must leave behind their sleepy town of Endsborough and risk their lives in the Wild Wood to discover who they truly are.

Review

Title: Changeling (The Oddmire #1)
Author: William Ritter
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy
Length: ~272 pages
Release: July 2019

When I was contacted about being part of the blog tour for this title, I was immediately intrigued. Twins where one child is human and the other is a goblin changeling? Sounds fascinating! Also, I had read and enjoyed the Jackaby series, so I was curious to see what Ritter's next book would be like. 

I was not disappointed.

This story has a magical forest, a witch, shapeshifters, goblins, and plenty of other magical elements. At it's core, it's a story about family and self worth and love all wrapped into an adventure.

The characters, Cole and Tenn in particular, were extremely likable. It was fun to read about their adventures and the silly things they would do and trouble they would cause. We also get to see each of them grapple with the fact that one of them (and they don't know which) is not human. The exploration of this aspect of the story is well done and turns out quite beautifully. Ritter has a way with words and his descriptions of these adventures is often beautiful.

The main thing that was a bit odd to me was the time period. I never could quite figure out when it was supposed to be set. At times it seemed almost modern and then it seemed older and it left me a little confused.

The ending has me very curious for the rest of the series. I don't know if it will continue to focus on the duo of Cole and Tenn or if we will be getting a deeper look at some of the other characters, but I'm excited to see what else there is to be explored in this magical world Ritter has introduced.

About the Author

William Ritter is an Oregon author and educator. He is the proud father of the two bravest boys in the Wild Wood, and husband to the indomitable Queen of the Deep Dark.The Oddmire is Ritter’s first series for middle-grade readers. He is also the author of the New York Times bestselling, award-winning Jackaby series for young adult readers. Visit him online at rwillritter.wordpress.com and find him on Twitter: @Willothewords.

falling in love with books

One of the things I love most about being a reader is reading a book and falling in love with it. This can happen quickly or unfold with each page I turn, the characters and story sinking into me until they feel like old friends.

My reading has slowed down a lot in the last year. My focus has shifted more toward writing and work, but that doesn't mean I'm not reading. I always have at least one book going, usually two or three. Or four or five. It really just depends.

When I started reading Song of the Abyss, I didn't think I was going to enjoy it. The first few chapters didn't quite grab my attention as much as I would like and I contemplated adding it to my DNF list. But I decided to give it a little longer and I'm glad that I did. After finishing, I immediately picked up the companion novel, Isle of Blood and Stone.


These companion novels have a rich world, interesting and well developed characters, and beautifully woven in elements of magic. I've been somewhat burned out on YA, particularly YA fantasy, for the last couple of years, but this one reminded me of all the things I have loved about the category in the past.

Song of the Abyss releases August 27, 2019, which gives you plenty of time to read Isle of Blood before it's release. With less than 1,000 ratings on goodreads, this is a highly underappreciated and underloved book. If you like YA fantasy, give this one a try. I don't think you'll regret it.

Code of Valor~Lynette Eason | Review

Title: Code of Valor (Blue Justice #3)
Author: Lynette Eason
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 336 Pages
Release: January 2019

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Review

Code of Valor by Lynette Eason is filled with a great supporting cast of characters, with the adorably lovable St. John clan. Many of Brady’s siblings have fairly prevalent roles, including Derek, Link, Ruthie and Izzy. And at the other end of the spectrum, Eason has created a plethora of delightfully evil characters. One word of caution, she has filled this book with a large amount of sub-characters, all important to the story, so pay close attention to who’s who. Eason always does a great job of creating a plot filled with twists and turns. She always reveals just enough to keep the story moving, while withholding just enough to keep the reader in the dark. She’s also excellent at developing very real and relatable characters — Emily is a girl that so many women will relate to, one who struggles with weight and body issues, as well as a major mistake in her past. Brady has to overcome trust issues, both in himself and in others, as he must learn when people genuinely need help and when they genuinely are willing to get help.

But as always, Eason doesn’t only offer a great, intense, heart-pounding thriller, she also writes a story that offers so many amazing lessons. “Code of Valor” also reminds us that life can be fickle, while throwing us curve balls; the difficulty of overcoming shame and trauma; the effects of betrayal; and the importance of loving ourselves.

Lethal Target~Janice Cantore | Review

Title: Lethal Target (Line of Duty #2)
Author: Janice Cantore
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 386 Pages
Release: October 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Lethal Target by Janice Cantore was an amazing book!! With vivid descriptions, genuine characters, plenty of action and suspense, and a touch of romance, Lethal Target held my interest until the very end.

There is a lot going on in Lethal Target with multiple twists, turns, and surprises in store. Of course there is at least one more book in this series so I will have to be content to wait along with other readers to find out how everything works out. If you have not read any of this author’s books and are a fan of suspense novels featuring law enforcement, be sure to give Lethal Target a chance.

In too Deep~Lynn H Blackburn | Review

Title: In too Deep (Dive Team Investigations #2)
Author: Lynn H Blackburn
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 352 Pages
Release: November 2018

I received a copy of this novel through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

I have been eagerly waiting for this book ever since I finished the first book in the series, "Beneath the Surface". Author Lynn Blackburn has found a unique place in this genre, hitting the exact right blend of suspense, dialogue, believable characters, and romance.

Atypical wealthy person turned-police officer-and-crusader-for-justice Adam Campbell loves his career. He has also made peace with the place he holds in his uber wealthy family. In love with the brilliant Dr. Sabrina Fleming since they met two years ago, he has yet to truly share his heart. When they are reconnected to solve this mystery, Adam knows that he cannot go on working with her unless he is straightforward about how he feels.

Dr. Sabrina Fleming is so crazy smart that she sometimes misses social cues - and occasionally, doesn't even recognize her own feelings. To her surprise, Adam is not only interested, but seems quite serious. However, she is sure that she is not a good fit for him or his family. Combined with the fact that her life seems to be repeatedly in danger, Sabrina puts all her energy into solving the mystery. But is the mystery she is trying to solve the right one?

The supporting cast is interesting, and there are multiple surprises throughout the story.
This book can be read as a standalone, but your experience will be much richer if you read number one first. I recommend these books and this author!

Mark of the Raven~Morgan L Busse | Review

Title: Mark of the Raven (The Ravenwood Saga #1)
Author: Morgan L Busse
Genre: Fantasy
Length: 352 Pages
Release: November 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Review

Mark of the Raven by Morgan Busse captures the essence of light and darkness within an ingenious package of daunting expectations and ingenious characterizations. . . . . .taking its readers on a journey that leads straight to their souls. "There were no choices, her future was dark and bleak."

As heir apparent to the House of Ravenwood, Selene has just been gifted; she's now a dream walker, and according to her mother, a surprisingly powerful one. Curious about an ability that the other six regions of her kingdom thought was destroyed, she listens as Grand Lady Ragna describes the seriousness of honing her skills, for she is to be the savior of her people by . . . controlling the dreams of others to the point of death? It cannot, it must not, be true.

Grand Lord Damien from the House of Waters is convinced that the Seven Houses must unite their gifts in order to avoid an aggressive attack from the nearby Dominia Empire. When called to the House of Ravenwood for a strategy summit, he hopes to build an alliance that will bring peace, the kind of unity that his deceased father longed to establish. Fascinated by the dark beauty that resides in Rook Castle, he cannot help but wonder what kind of strength lies beneath Selene's cold veneer. . . if he only knew, he is about to find out.

"A leader can serve her people by sacrifice and love."

Burden of Proof~DiAnn Mills | Review

Title: Burden of Proof (FBI: Rapid Response #1)
Author: DiAnn Mills
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 416 Pages
Release: October 2019

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Review

Burden of Proof by DiAnn Mills  was an exciting roller coaster read from the very beginning. Just my type of story! I loved all of the danger, suspense and twisted corners that the story took. I really liked both Jason and April. Both of them were strong and likable characters. I got a bit frustrated with April’s partner in the FBI and his “need to know only” behavior. Keeping your partner in the dark can lead to unnecessary danger! And that danger visited quite frequently! It kept me on the edge of my seat and my fingers quickly turning the pages! The little bit of romance between April and Jason wasn’t over-the-top or unbelievable and I found myself hoping that all would work out for them. A great book to add to your romantic/suspense shelf, I highly recommend!

Hidden Peril~Irene Hannon | Review

Title: Hidden Peril (Code of Honor #2)
Author: Irene Hannon
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 416 Pages
Release: October 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Hidden Peril keeps true to Hannon’s great writing and will keep the reader turning the page.

It’s been twenty years since Kristin Dane took a vow with her friends to do what she could to make the world a better place and she is now making that happen with her fair-trade shop. She has products from around the world and is able to bring attention to these areas and their needs by the products she sales. When people connected to her shop start dying, Kristin gets involved in the case. She begins working with Detective Luke Carter. He has just started working with the St. Louis PD and is pulled deep into the case hoping to find answers. Kristin and Luke work with the FBI in a case that spans the globe and is more complicated than any of them first believed. Together they work to stop this killer before more people die. Hidden Peril is the second book in the Code of Honor series and I loved the way this story played out. The way the story spanned the globe and brought about history and awareness to events not commonly talked about made it all the more interesting. Some authors have a way with making certain characters especially evil and Irene Hannon is one of those authors, I felt the evil and let it roll with the story in the direction it was meant to go. Nothing seemed forced and the characters meshed well together. Kristin is the type of character that is easily relatable, and you want to pull for and see her succeed.

A Secret to Die For~Lisa Harris | Review

Title: A Secret to Die For
Author: Lisa Harris
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 327 Pages
Release: September 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Another fast-paced thrilling journey from Lisa Harris! The action and suspense start from page one and don’t stop until the very end of the book. Whew! The numerous twists and turns in the plot definitely had me guessing constantly who the bad guy may be...

The book is well-written with an intriguing plot and premise, the style of writing is fluid and easy to read, the suspense is intense, and the characters are delightful.

Grace and Nate were friends back in college who have lost touch for the last decade or so. Both have emotional and psychological trauma from their pasts and have struggles trying to overcome fear, guilt, and hopelessness. Grace is a deeply feeling, vulnerable yet resourceful and brave psychologist who gets sucked into Nate’s world when one of her clients becomes a murder victim. Nate is a homicide detective, freshly released for return to duty after a bombing that killed his partner and colleagues. Nate is thorough, meticulous, protective, loyal, and tender-hearted yet tries to wall up his heart. When the two reconnect because of a homicide case, they become involved in trying to stop a nefarious scheme much bigger than they had thought but also in laying down their past fears and anxieties.

If you love romantic suspense, this book is for you. You won’t be able to put it down!

The Cost of Betrayal | Review

Title: The Cost of Betrayal
Author: Dee Henderson, Dani Pettrey, Lynette Eason
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 378 Pages
Release: September 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Unbelievable! Three truly talented authors write three novellas that are filled with suspense, thrills, faith, action and more. Each accomplished author has written many novels individually that are truly magnificent to read, so if you’re not familiar with them look up their novels and dive right in! The three novellas aren’t tied together, and they are unique and mesmerizing!

Dee Henderson’s story is titled, “Betrayed”, and I enjoyed the plot of a couple, one who works for the FBI while the other is a retired police officer who are at an auction. The couple, Paul and Ann, aren’t seeking anything in particular just enjoying being together without a crisis on their plate. Of course, that is until Ann chooses a box of miscellaneous items to hopefully set up her next painting scene. What it does though has set them on a path of discovery of a murder and the woman who supposedly was the culprit.

Dani Pettrey offers readers “Deadly Isle” where two cousins are on an island swimming towards a buoy. Tennyson and her cousin Julia have raced toward this mark for as long as “Teni” can remember. When Teni arrives, Julia is nowhere to be found. However, a storm is on the horizon and there is blood on the buoy, a lot of it but no one is around. Now, there’s a good teaser for this gripping murder mystery along with so much more to the story that readers will get to discover.

Lynette Eason brings to the audience a tale entitled, “Code of Ethics”. Like Dee and Dani, Lynette is a master of suspense and telling gripping tales. A surgeon saves the life of a detective who was shot while on duty. Ruthie goes in to check her patient only to find an intruder there trying to put something in the IV. The patient, who is a detective, is trying to leave the hospital because he knows his life is in danger. Isaac had reported a fellow officer when he caught him stealing from the evidence room. While it was the right thing to do, there are those who don’t agree with Isaac, and others who want to kill him.! All three stories are standalones and very well written. They entertain but they also bring a sense of adventure and will keep you captivated until the very end! Read, enjoy and tell others you know about this fantastic collection of three novellas!

Dead Drift~Dani Pettrey | Review

Title: Dead Drift (Chesapeake Valor #4)
Author: Dani Pettrey
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 301 Pages
Release: July 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

This is the last book in the Chesapeake Valor series and is the long-awaited story of Kate Maxwell and Luke Gallagher. Where has Luke been and what has he been doing for years? . . .I am not going to say and spoil it. But, oh, what a story he has to tell and the unbelievable dangerous situation he brings right to the door of the Valor-Team (as I call them), setting things into motion that escalate to a race against time.

I like that there is a duel story-line in this one as well. As much as I wanted to read Luke and Kate’s story, I hoped to read about the case Griffin and Finley are pursuing in this story. That case is one that is very special to Griffin and I wanted him to find a credible lead and a closure of sorts. I am glad it was included in this book. Not saying more as I don’t want to give anything away. What they uncover certainly was a surprise to them as well.

Dead Drift is a fast-paced, gripping story with mystery and dangerous situations. A plot and story-line with twists and turns, unexpected surprises along the way, unraveling twisting threads of secrets, lies and betrayal while on the brink of a biological disaster. . .whew! I will miss the characters in the Chesapeake Valor series. Well done Dani Pettrey!

The Forbidden Door~Dean Koontz | Review

Title: The Forbidden Door (Jane Hawk #4)
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: Suspense/Thriller
Length: 434 Pages
Release: September 2018

I received a copy of this novel through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

In an effort to avoid spoilers for this and the previous three installments in the series, this review is going to be short and sweet. 

This latest installment in the Jane Hawk series picks up where the previous book The Crooked Staircase left off. Jane is, once again, under a time crunch to get somewhere fast. Some old favorites show up and others become favorites. Koontz knows how to write compelling characters and they shine in this series. 

A majority of this novel is told from the perspective of the bad guys, giving us insight into their mental state and the lengths they are willing to go to bring Jane down. At first this seemed odd and could be off putting to some readers, but it worked and was needed for this portion of the story. 

This series can be frightening because it often seems like it could be real. And while there are many many good people in the world, there are also many horrible people. It's not too far fetched to believe that something like this could happen. 

If you haven't started this series and are at all inclined to do so, I highly recommend it. 

Thirst of Steel~Ronie Kendig | Review

Title: Thirst of Steel (The Fox Files #3)
Author: Ronie Kendig
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 459 Pages
Release: July 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Ronie Kendig has done it again! With Thirst of Steel, Kendig provides her readers with yet another engrossing story filled to the brim with heart-pounding action, and peppered with intrigue, romance, humor, and adventure.

In this final installment of the Tox Files, Ronie Kendig brings her thrilling series to a close with Tox, Ram, and the team fighting one last battle.This time, the stakes are higher than ever, as Tox faces mystery, heartache, and betrayal as he infiltrates the enemy’s inner circle. But appearances are deceiving, and one mistake—or failure to distinguish friend from foe—could cost him everything.

The relentless pace of action and intrigue make Thirst of Steel a compelling page-turner, and Kendig truly kept me guessing right up to the very end! And as befitting the finale of an incredible series with well-drawn and believable characters, this novel packs plenty of emotional punch, and the surprising ending left me hopeful and heartbroken all at once.
I have to say I’m sad to be seeing the last of Tox, Haven, and Wraith Team, but boy what a ride it’s been! I can’t wait to see what’s next from this author!

Called to Protect~Lynette Eason | Review

Title: Called to Protect (Blue Justice #2)
Author: Lynette Eason
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 320 Pages
Release: July 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Called to Protect focuses on Chloe St. John, a K-9 cop, and Blake McCallum, a US Marshall. Both are personally invested in solving a human trafficking case since they have loved ones that are missing. Since Chloe and Blake grew up together they seem to work very well together as a team, but I especially enjoyed the scenes with Hank, Chloe's K-9 partner. I'm a dog lover, and I enjoyed reading about Chloe and Hank's work and their special bond.

As I was reading, I was excited, frustrated, and eager to see how everything turned out! I really wanted to see the criminals brought to justice! This story felt extremely relevant to our current society as human trafficking is a huge problem not just in foreign countries but in the United States as well. I appreciate Lynette Eason shedding light on such a complex issue. I can’t wait for the next book!

Blind Betrayal~Nancy Mehl | Review

Title: Blind Betrayal (Defenders of Justice #3)
Author: Nancy Mehl
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 320 Pages
Release: April 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Blind Betrayal by Nancy Mehl is a very suspense-filled book, third in her Defenders of Justice series. Nancy Mehl grabs her reader’s attention from the first page, not giving them a reprieve, until the final page. Blind Betrayal by Nancy Mehl is a very good intense book, filled with loads of suspense, danger, and surprising plot twists. This third installment in Nancy Mehl’s series was very good in my opinion. I really enjoyed Nancy Mehl’s characters, as she wove relatable traits into each character as well as building a deep and mysterious personal history for each character.

The plot in Nancy Mehl’s book follows a strong, independent, fierce woman, Casey Sloane, a US Marshal in St. Louis, as she and her partner undertake the assignment of getting a witness safely from St. Louis to Washington D. C. Needless to say, the task sounds much easier than it actually is and Casey, her partner, and other members of the U.S. Marshals have to deal with a bombing, attempted murder, wounded and dead colleagues, powerful cartels and terrorist groups, undercover agents, and so many more intriguing and layered plots that make the book so good. Casey and her partner take their assignment seriously, and as they encounter many obstacles, they must risk their lives to transport this reporter to Washington D.C. to give evidence at a hearing.

Overall, I enjoyed Nancy Mehl’s writing in this book, as she not only intrigued and entertained with this story, but also gave a reminder of how we ought to forgive. This was a page-turner and I would highly recommend it. I hope you have a chance to enjoy this exceptional story!

Lone Witness~Rachel Dylan | Review

Title: Lone Witness (Atlanta Justice #2)
Author: Rachel Dylan
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 320 Pages
Release: May 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Lone Witness by Rachel Dylan, is book 2 in the Atlanta Justice Series. This legal thriller is full of multiple plot lines to keep the reader engaged and guessing about which danger is going to be faced next. Sophie Dawson has been promoted to a senior assistant district attorney in the White Collar Crimes Unit of Fulton County. She is busy working on her first case in her new division, a local bank employee is accused of cheating customers, and she is determined to get justice for those people who lost their savings. Working late, she decides that she has to stop to get some snacks for her drive home, so she stops at a familiar convenience store. She is a witness to a double homicide and she is the only person that can make a positive ID on the person who committed the crime.

Sophie is now in great danger because she is the lone witness that can identify the killer. Sophie’s father is concerned about her safety and hires a bodyguard, Cooper Knight, a co-owner for a private security firm and someone who Sophie has met in the past. At first Cooper keeps a very low profile, but as the danger rises for Sophie, he must make his presence known and some hard decisions need to be made about how to handle her day-to-day activities and even where she is going to have to live for an extended period of time in order to stay safe and sound.

As new threats on Sophie’s life come to light, it is no longer clear who is involved and the security firm has to consider if her role as a witness, or her job as a senior assistant DA is the ultimate danger. The character development for the main characters, as well as the secondary characters is fascinating. The reader gets an in-depth view into the different roles in the legal world and what it takes to play the politics and the dangers of decisions on how a case is going to play out. Lone Witness is a legal thriller that will keep you reading, and constantly re-thinking who is behind the various plot lines and who can be trusted. A great read!

Kill Shot~Susan Sleeman | Review

Title: Kill Shot (White Knights #2)
Author: Susan Sleeman
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 336 Pages
Release: February 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Review

When you begin a Susan Sleeman book, get ready for a thrilling ride! She hits the ground running with pulse-pounding excitement and continues throughout the book without giving you a chance to get off this powerful roller coaster ride of suspense.

Sleeman has created a great cast of characters for this book, her second in the White Knights series. These men and women are FBI agents who have all served in the military, and now they work to bring down criminals of the worst sort. The author keeps the reader invested in her characters from the first page, even the secondary ones.

There are two main characters, Olivia and Rick. Dr. Olivia Dobbs is a Christian therapist who counsels mainly ex or current military who suffer from PTSD. When her last patient is murdered nearly right in front of her eyes, the FBI team, White Knights, are called in. There is something indeed very ominous about this case or the regular police would have handled it. A serious threat to national security is in play here and the agents are in a race against time to track down the culprits before there are unimaginable consequences. Agent Rick Cannon, fighting demons of his own, is assigned to guard Dr. Dobbs because she is in the line of fire as well. He doesn't trust her and believes she is involved in this case.

Storm Front~Susan May Warren | Review

Title: Storm Front (Montana Rescue #5)
Author: Susan May Warren
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 336 Pages
Release: May 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Review

Susan May Warren continues the story of Montana’s PEAK Rescue team members in “Storm Front,” which focuses on former chopper pilot Ty Remington and journalist Brette Arnold.

Ty is still struggling to find his role in life. He feels like he’s just the muscle and go-getter for PEAK, feeling deeply inadequate and inefficient. And he still struggles with the fact that the woman he fell madly in love with, Brette, has walked out of his life without one single look back.

But what he doesn’t realize is that Brette, who is currently working with a storm chasing group as a photographer and blogger, has had struggles of her own — devastating struggles that she feels she must face on her own.

When the two are brought together after a devastating tornado in Minnesota, can they put aside their fears and doubts to help friends — new and old — find missing loved ones? And can they come together in truth and honesty to build a relationship?

“Storm Front” is an action-packed, heart-thumping novel that quite simply is difficult to put down. With devastatingly powerful storms, missing people and search parties, it also includes toe-curling romance.
Once again Susan May Warren develops incredibly real and relatable characters — filled with doubts, fears, insecurities, hopes and lack of hope, and just about every other imaginable flaw. It deals with overcoming great loss, and she also does a brilliant job of not only providing an incredible story, but also teaching amazing lessons.

The main theme, as the title hints at, deals with weathering the storms of life, and how each of us chooses to weather those storms. She reminds us to “accept the storm and ride it out without a whimper”. “Storm Front” reminds us that we must look past the storm and find the sunshine, or the hope, in each situation.

And through Brette’s personal battles, this novel also hits on the topic of beauty, both inner and outer, and the difficulty in finding the beauty in ourselves.

This is the fifth book in a series, but could be read as a standalone, although I would highly recommend reading the rest of the books. However, I do feel Warren offers enough background if this is your first experience with the Montana Rescue series.

The Crooked Staircase~Dean Koontz | Review

Title: The Crooked Staircase (Jane Hawk #3)
Author: Dean Koontz
Genre: Thriller
Length: 462 Pages
Release: May 2018

I received a copy of this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Review

This third installment in the Jane Hawk series keeps the action amped up as Jane continues to hunt down members of the secret organization that is slowly overtaking the world with its control mechanism that turns even the most willful individuals into slaves. All it takes is a round of three injections and your mind is no longer yours. 

These books are frightening because they are realistic. It does not seem that far fetched to imagine a world where corrupt people with a little power have developed a way to control the population. This adds an eerie quality to the story, particularly when you end up in the head of one of these "adjusted" people and are privy to their reactions. 

There were a lot of heartbreaking moments within this installment. At this point, it's amazing that Jane can keep going. And the woman is only twenty-seven years old. Her well of hope seems to have an endless spring, and she is going to need it. 

One thing that I appreciate is that Koontz has written a strong woman, who is extremely capable, but doesn't make it so that she can take on fully grown men with ease. He shows her struggle to fight against men and women alike and it's often her training that gets her out of situations, which is always a good thing. She is not superhuman, but she is well trained and is fighting for the good of the world and her family. 

My main criticism of this series is that it seems never ending. There are already at least two more books announced and I don't see how the story can be wrapped up satisfactorily. If anyone can do it, Koontz can, but I'm eager to see the end of this journey. They are emotional rides and the end of this one has me sweating. 

Beneath the Surface~Lynn Blackburn | Review

Title: Beneath The Surface (Dive Team Investigators #1)
Author: Lynn H Blackburn
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Length: 352 Pages
Release: March 2018

A copy of this novel was received through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Review

I am always on the lookout for new and exciting inspirational suspense novels, and Beneath the Surface did not disappoint. Lynn Blackburn delivers a novel that balances action with fantastic interpersonal interactions, careful criminal investigation with plenty of tension, and a light-hearted joy despite the depravity of the crimes. Beneath the Surface was a very enjoyable novel to read.  Lynn H. Blackburn earns her way onto my list of favorite romantic suspense authors with this book.

Leigh Weston has returned to her hometown, eager to escape the memories of a patient who turned stalker. But what was supposed to bring peace and security only brings more chaos when the local dive team investigation unit discovers a dead body in the water just off Leigh’s lakeside home. Homicide Investigator Ryan Parker didn’t enjoy discovering a body on one of his team’s routine training sessions, but he is glad for the excuse to spend more time with his childhood crush (and his best-friend’s sister), Leigh. But the case becomes personal when Leigh finds herself targeted by a dangerous killer.

The thing I loved most about Beneath the Surface was the way it mixes intense suspense and investigation with lighthearted banter between friends and the growing relationship between Ryan and Leigh. While some romantic suspense novels seem to focus solely on the investigation details and other stretch believability for the sake of romance, Lynn Blackburn gets the balance just right. As the events unfolded, I felt like I really had time to get to know the characters. From Ryan’s teammates to Leigh’s colleagues at the hospital, all the characters were richly detailed and add multiple layers to this story. I particularly enjoyed hanging with the dive investigation team. Their camaraderie shines through the small squabbles, idea-sharing sessions, and the way in which they have each other’s backs. I look forward to continuing the series with this team, watching as other members fall in love and catch some bad guys.