Vincent Ralph's "Secrets Never Die" offers a chilling and exhilarating thrill ride that kept me engrossed from start to finish. This suspenseful tale Vincent Ralph's "Secrets Never Die" offers a chilling and exhilarating thrill ride that kept me engrossed from start to finish. This suspenseful tale immerses readers in an atmosphere that's as mysterious as it is captivating, setting the stage for an unforgettable narrative.
One of the standout elements of this book is its unwavering pace. The plot hurtles forward with a relentless energy that ensures there's never a dull moment. I found myself eagerly listening along, driven by the need to uncover the secrets that loom over the characters.
Speaking of characters, the main protagonists are a dynamic ensemble, each harboring secrets that are as diverse as they are compelling. I appreciated how their individual mysteries ranged in depth, revealing layers of complexity within the group. This multifaceted exploration of secrecy added depth to the story, keeping me guessing about what lay beneath the surface.
The ending of the book was a well-executed. It managed to provide closure while leaving just enough room for speculation, a delicate balance that's often hard to achieve in thrillers. This touch of ambiguity added an extra layer of intrigue, ensuring that the story lingered in my thoughts long after I'd finished reading.
In summary, "Secrets Never Die" is a spine-tingling thriller that masterfully blends suspense and mystery. With its engaging atmosphere, a cast of intriguing characters, and a thought-provoking conclusion, it's a book that deserves every bit of its 4.5-star rating. For those who revel in stories that keep you on the edge of your seat, this one is a must-read. Vincent Ralph has delivered a tale that will haunt you long after the final page is turned.
THANK YOU TO THE PUBLISHER FOR AN ADVANCE LISTENER COPY...more
Prepare to be captivated by Hannah Kaner's "Godkiller," a masterfully crafted adult high fantasy that takes readers onBookstagram l BookTok l BookTube
Prepare to be captivated by Hannah Kaner's "Godkiller," a masterfully crafted adult high fantasy that takes readers on an exhilarating journey of self discovery and sacrifice. What sets this novel apart is Kaner's seamless and unapologetic inclusion of characters with disabilities – there's no hint of forced representation. Instead, they are portrayed as everyday individuals who exist organically within this richly woven tapestry of a fantastical world. (& the real world.)
The heart of the story revolves around an unlikely found family that will undoubtedly steal your heart. Kissen, a remorseless Godkiller shaped by a tragic past, and Inara, a noble-born enigma with an unidentifiable lineage, form the core of this enthralling ensemble. They are joined by Skedi, whose connection to Inara defies the divine, and Elo, a retired knight haunted by his wartime memories and a profound history with King Arren. Elo's quest, triggered by a fateful visit from the King, aligns with Kissen and Inara's pilgrimage to the city of Gods. This journey is about confronting divine mysteries and personal demons.
The narrative's pace is relentless, driving the plot forward with unwavering determination. While there is a brief pause in the action, this lull is pivotal for readers to deepen their understanding of the characters, fostering a stronger connection that enhances their later decisions. It's like spending a bit more time with cherished friends, a welcome respite that strengthens the emotional bonds.
I eagerly anticipate "Godkiller's" release in the States, where it will become more accessible to readers. Kaner's commitment to portraying individuals with disabilities as resilient and formidable as their non-disabled counterparts is both commendable and refreshing. In a genre often entangled in the savior complex, Kaner's novel steers clear of such tropes, focusing instead on the characters' inherent strengths and tenacity.
I eagerly anticipate the release of this book in the United States, where it will become more accessible to a wider readership. (already out in the UK). Kaner's commendable work shines a spotlight on individuals with disabilities, portraying them as equally resilient and formidable as their non-disabled counterparts. Godkiller refreshingly eschews the typical 'savior complex' often found in fantasy, where the storyline revolves around curing a disability. Kaner's agenda is clear, and it's a breath of fresh air in the genre. A strong debut that makes me eager to start the next book in the series.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced readers copy of this book ...more
One of my most anticipated releases of 2023,Perilous Times turned out to be a challenging read that left me feeling dBookstagram l BookTok l BookTube
One of my most anticipated releases of 2023,Perilous Times turned out to be a challenging read that left me feeling disappointed.While Thomas D. Lee's background in queer interpretations of the Arthurian mythos intrigued me, I found myself longing for deeper lore and more engaging exploration of queer themes. Unfortunately, the story fell short of delivering on these expectations, leaving me wanting more.
The pacing of the book was a struggle, as it felt like I was dragging my feet through the narrative, waiting for something to captivate my attention. Despite my usual fondness for character-driven plots, I found the story lacking in depth and substance, leaving me disconnected from the characters and their journeys. Even when the promised sword fighting scenes arrived, they failed to evoke any real excitement or investment. The characters were all unlikeable and no redemption was made to make me feel like they deserved any of my pity, let alone respect.
It's important to note that I experienced the book primarily through the audiobook format, which may have hindered my overall engagement with the story. It's possible that Perilous Times would have been better suited for a print format, allowing for a more immersive reading experience.
Despite my disappointment with this particular book, I remain genuinely intrigued by Thomas D. Lee's potential as a writer. I look forward to exploring his future works, especially if they draw more heavily on his studies in the Arthurian mythos and incorporate richer storytelling elements.
In conclusion, while Perilous Times fell short of my expectations, I am eager to see what the future holds for Thomas D. Lee and his writing career, and I hope to find more compelling Arthurian stories that fully embrace his unique areas of expertise.
Thank you penguin random house audio for allowing me access to the influencer program, and allowing me to receive this ALC free. I am under no obligation to post this review. ...more