Opal Summerfield: My review

Opal Summerfield: My review.

Opal Summerfield: My review

 

Opal Summerfield: & The Battle of Fallmoon Gap

Author: Mark Caldwell Jones

 

Within the enchanted Ozark Mountain lives a young sixteen-year-old girl named Opal. On the day of the sixteen birthday, a day of celebration something happens that would change the course and direction of her life. Secrets are hidden; magic is everywhere as Opal receives a special necklace for a hawk for her birthday. The necklace is powerful and is made of Opal like her name and will protect her from harm as many including an evil conjurer named Amina and a group of dangerous masked hoodlums called Hoods, leave more than just their mark on Opal. Enjoying her birthday but first dealing with renegade boys who take pleasure in tormenting and hurting others, Opal finds herself escaping their clutches, fighting for her life. But, things take a bad turn as the Hoods attack her family and many others killing them all leaving her to escape and find her way on her own. But, along the way she finds herself fighting mysterious creatures, learning to understand the power of the necklace and realizing that she can no longer remain in her Ozark Mountain home. Within this novel you will learn that there are many different kinds of people some black, some white and in Opals case a mixture of both. With her parents both gone and living with her uncle and aunt, she receives more love than most young teens do in the same situation. A mystic necklace holds the key to her future. Belonging to her deceased mother it holds great power and might help her to learn who she really might be and more about her parents. Maggie Brown/Amina the Conjurer wants it all. Killing her entire family, then killing a powerful blind woman, thinking she holds the answers to where the necklace might be, Opal a who has blue eyes and is African-American provides much conversation for the white and black folks of Hookrum as the call the black part of town or the whites call it and Possum Belly as the black people refer to the whites part of town. Racial slurs, racial tension, prejudice are at the core of this novel.

Griggs Landing is where she lives and the separation between the white and black parts of town is vividly described as is the magical land called the Veil.

Opal finds herself within a place will magical stones, people, creatures and a key to her past as she begins her journey with her new found resolve. But, stubborn, angry, unsure of where she is going she still resists the help of others as she tries to blend into Fallmoon Gap, learn the secrets behind the magic Opal stone and meets the mysterious Ranger whose job it is to protect and save her.

 

Throughout the center of the novel parts two and three the author engages Opal in training to understand the power of the necklace, the magic that she needs to understand and use, the many instructors that address her and her training to become a Warden. As she is training, learning the meaning of the crystals, their uses and power Amina is plotting to take over Fallmoon Gap and hopes that she will rule one day as queen but first she needs to take what Opal has: The necklace. With the Ranger hiding in plain site and hoping to protect Opal, her impulsive and brash behavior often getting her into trouble and dangerous situations just how will she manage to succeed in her training, will she ever connect with her mother and what about her past?

 

The Veil is a magical realm where the energy flows through the land like a raging river and dangerous creatures changed the magic of the Veil hunt those that misuse the magic. The Agama Stone is the name of the Opal Crystal that she wears around her neck and its dangerous powers are often unleashed as her emotions change and the powers it holds can destroy. What she learns about her parents will solidify her need to succeed and what he finds out about her father, who many say is dead, will surprise her. Could he be a terrible criminal who has allied himself with Amina? Would he join in her quest to destroy Fallmoon Gap and did he play a part in killing everyone she loved? But, lies and betrayals are about to come front and center as Opal learns the truth about her father, just who he really and the real reason Amina wants to take down Fallmoon Gap. Lessons from the Wardens of the Protectorate will not stop what this evil witch as set in motion. Promises to resurrect someone from the dead if Opal is sacrificed prove deadly but for whom? With her teachers and trainers Eltheon, Luka, Tirian, Jakob and others Opal learns the true meaning of loyalty, trust and friendship at all costs. It all began in Liberty Creek and the people there sent something to those in Fallmoon Gap. Something so powerful and beautiful: a crystal disc of great beauty made to pay tribute to her late mother. But, there is much more before the story is done and the ending is revealed. Evil reigns, killings take place, more loved ones are destroyed and the end is near unless Opal and Tirian and figure out the real reason and the real source of power that will allow Maggie/Amina to feed, keep her monsters alive and allow her to win this dangerous war.

 

Opal learns some hard lessons about life as she comes face to face in a battle with Amina but who turns on her and who caused the death of so many in Liberty Creek you won’t believe. Her necklace stolen, a conjurer using its power but who was working with the conjurer and who would protect Opal as the author provides subtle twist readers won’t see coming. The final battle is run, lives are lost, weapons are drawn, truths are revealed and the final outcome of the Veil at stake. But, just as Opal faces off with her enemies something happens that would turn the tables against her. Can she kill the conjurer? Will she save those she loves? How many more will dies before the fight is over? The Agama Stone so powerful and dangerous only one person can control and handle its magic. Emotions rise the power of the stone changes the results magical. What happens to those that survive? What is the truth about her father? Is this really over or is someone hiding in plain sight that lets readers know that the fight to protect the Veil is not over and Opal’s battle has just begun. The magic of the Ozark Mountains is breathtaking. Join Opal as she learns about the power of the many gem stones and crystals as you the reader can join her in class as you read pages 216-217 and learn just which stones you might want to borrow or have in order to be protected, be able to destroy, sense danger and divine the future. Opal is a young teen that is outspoken, rebellious, smart, a quick learner, headstrong but most of all loyal to those she loves. Meet the other Wardens, take the classes, learn the history behind the Protectorate and be ready for the next adventure. Loyalty, friendship, racism, prejudice, caring, understanding and hope are just some of the important issues that the characters learn within the pages of this novel. Teens will love Opal as adults will love Sugar and Jakob. So take the journey into the Ozarks but remember to wear your own Agama Stone to stay safe.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Let’s give this one five blue sapphires which are my favorite stones and of course will protect everyone from the dangers of Amina.

 

 

Opal Summerfield: My review

 

Opal Summerfield: & The Battle of Fallmoon Gap

Author: Mark Caldwell Jones

 

Within the enchanted Ozark Mountain lives a young sixteen-year-old girl named Opal. On the day of the sixteen birthday, a day of celebration something happens that would change the course and direction of her life. Secrets are hidden; magic is everywhere as Opal receives a special necklace for a hawk for her birthday. The necklace is powerful and is made of Opal like her name and will protect her from harm as many including an evil conjurer named Amina and a group of dangerous masked hoodlums called Hoods, leave more than just their mark on Opal. Enjoying her birthday but first dealing with renegade boys who take pleasure in tormenting and hurting others, Opal finds herself escaping their clutches, fighting for her life. But, things take a bad turn as the Hoods attack her family and many others killing them all leaving her to escape and find her way on her own. But, along the way she finds herself fighting mysterious creatures, learning to understand the power of the necklace and realizing that she can no longer remain in her Ozark Mountain home. Within this novel you will learn that there are many different kinds of people some black, some white and in Opals case a mixture of both. With her parents both gone and living with her uncle and aunt, she receives more love than most young teens do in the same situation. A mystic necklace holds the key to her future. Belonging to her deceased mother it holds great power and might help her to learn who she really might be and more about her parents. Maggie Brown/Amina the Conjurer wants it all. Killing her entire family, then killing a powerful blind woman, thinking she holds the answers to where the necklace might be, Opal a who has blue eyes and is African-American provides much conversation for the white and black folks of Hookrum as the call the black part of town or the whites call it and Possum Belly as the black people refer to the whites part of town. Racial slurs, racial tension, prejudice are at the core of this novel.

Griggs Landing is where she lives and the separation between the white and black parts of town is vividly described as is the magical land called the Veil.

Opal finds herself within a place will magical stones, people, creatures and a key to her past as she begins her journey with her new found resolve. But, stubborn, angry, unsure of where she is going she still resists the help of others as she tries to blend into Fallmoon Gap, learn the secrets behind the magic Opal stone and meets the mysterious Ranger whose job it is to protect and save her.

 

Throughout the center of the novel parts two and three the author engages Opal in training to understand the power of the necklace, the magic that she needs to understand and use, the many instructors that address her and her training to become a Warden. As she is training, learning the meaning of the crystals, their uses and power Amina is plotting to take over Fallmoon Gap and hopes that she will rule one day as queen but first she needs to take what Opal has: The necklace. With the Ranger hiding in plain site and hoping to protect Opal, her impulsive and brash behavior often getting her into trouble and dangerous situations just how will she manage to succeed in her training, will she ever connect with her mother and what about her past?

 

The Veil is a magical realm where the energy flows through the land like a raging river and dangerous creatures changed the magic of the Veil hunt those that misuse the magic. The Agama Stone is the name of the Opal Crystal that she wears around her neck and its dangerous powers are often unleashed as her emotions change and the powers it holds can destroy. What she learns about her parents will solidify her need to succeed and what he finds out about her father, who many say is dead, will surprise her. Could he be a terrible criminal who has allied himself with Amina? Would he join in her quest to destroy Fallmoon Gap and did he play a part in killing everyone she loved? But, lies and betrayals are about to come front and center as Opal learns the truth about her father, just who he really and the real reason Amina wants to take down Fallmoon Gap. Lessons from the Wardens of the Protectorate will not stop what this evil witch as set in motion. Promises to resurrect someone from the dead if Opal is sacrificed prove deadly but for whom? With her teachers and trainers Eltheon, Luka, Tirian, Jakob and others Opal learns the true meaning of loyalty, trust and friendship at all costs. It all began in Liberty Creek and the people there sent something to those in Fallmoon Gap. Something so powerful and beautiful: a crystal disc of great beauty made to pay tribute to her late mother. But, there is much more before the story is done and the ending is revealed. Evil reigns, killings take place, more loved ones are destroyed and the end is near unless Opal and Tirian and figure out the real reason and the real source of power that will allow Maggie/Amina to feed, keep her monsters alive and allow her to win this dangerous war.

 

Opal learns some hard lessons about life as she comes face to face in a battle with Amina but who turns on her and who caused the death of so many in Liberty Creek you won’t believe. Her necklace stolen, a conjurer using its power but who was working with the conjurer and who would protect Opal as the author provides subtle twist readers won’t see coming. The final battle is run, lives are lost, weapons are drawn, truths are revealed and the final outcome of the Veil at stake. But, just as Opal faces off with her enemies something happens that would turn the tables against her. Can she kill the conjurer? Will she save those she loves? How many more will dies before the fight is over? The Agama Stone so powerful and dangerous only one person can control and handle its magic. Emotions rise the power of the stone changes the results magical. What happens to those that survive? What is the truth about her father? Is this really over or is someone hiding in plain sight that lets readers know that the fight to protect the Veil is not over and Opal’s battle has just begun. The magic of the Ozark Mountains is breathtaking. Join Opal as she learns about the power of the many gem stones and crystals as you the reader can join her in class as you read pages 216-217 and learn just which stones you might want to borrow or have in order to be protected, be able to destroy, sense danger and divine the future. Opal is a young teen that is outspoken, rebellious, smart, a quick learner, headstrong but most of all loyal to those she loves. Meet the other Wardens, take the classes, learn the history behind the Protectorate and be ready for the next adventure. Loyalty, friendship, racism, prejudice, caring, understanding and hope are just some of the important issues that the characters learn within the pages of this novel. Teens will love Opal as adults will love Sugar and Jakob. So take the journey into the Ozarks but remember to wear your own Agama Stone to stay safe.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Let’s give this one five blue sapphires which are my favorite stones and of course will protect everyone from the dangers of Amina.

 

 

Opal Summerfield

 

Opal Summerfield: & The Battle of Fallmoon Gap

Author: Mark Caldwell Jones

 

Within the enchanted Ozark Mountain lives a young sixteen-year-old girl named Opal. On the day of the sixteen birthday, a day of celebration something happens that would change the course and direction of her life. Secrets are hidden; magic is everywhere as Opal receives a special necklace for a hawk for her birthday. The necklace is powerful and is made of Opal like her name and will protect her from harm as many including an evil conjurer named Amina and a group of dangerous masked hoodlums called Hoods, leave more than just their mark on Opal. Enjoying her birthday but first dealing with renegade boys who take pleasure in tormenting and hurting others, Opal finds herself escaping their clutches, fighting for her life. But, things take a bad turn as the Hoods attack her family and many others killing them all leaving her to escape and find her way on her own. But, along the way she finds herself fighting mysterious creatures, learning to understand the power of the necklace and realizing that she can no longer remain in her Ozark Mountain home. Within this novel you will learn that there are many different kinds of people some black, some white and in Opals case a mixture of both. With her parents both gone and living with her uncle and aunt, she receives more love than most young teens do in the same situation. A mystic necklace holds the key to her future. Belonging to her deceased mother it holds great power and might help her to learn who she really might be and more about her parents. Maggie Brown/Amina the Conjurer wants it all. Killing her entire family, then killing a powerful blind woman, thinking she holds the answers to where the necklace might be, Opal a who has blue eyes and is African-American provides much conversation for the white and black folks of Hookrum as the call the black part of town or the whites call it and Possum Belly as the black people refer to the whites part of town. Racial slurs, racial tension, prejudice are at the core of this novel.

Griggs Landing is where she lives and the separation between the white and black parts of town is vividly described as is the magical land called the Veil.

Opal finds herself within a place will magical stones, people, creatures and a key to her past as she begins her journey with her new found resolve. But, stubborn, angry, unsure of where she is going she still resists the help of others as she tries to blend into Fallmoon Gap, learn the secrets behind the magic Opal stone and meets the mysterious Ranger whose job it is to protect and save her.

 

Throughout the center of the novel parts two and three the author engages Opal in training to understand the power of the necklace, the magic that she needs to understand and use, the many instructors that address her and her training to become a Warden. As she is training, learning the meaning of the crystals, their uses and power Amina is plotting to take over Fallmoon Gap and hopes that she will rule one day as queen but first she needs to take what Opal has: The necklace. With the Ranger hiding in plain site and hoping to protect Opal, her impulsive and brash behavior often getting her into trouble and dangerous situations just how will she manage to succeed in her training, will she ever connect with her mother and what about her past?

 

The Veil is a magical realm where the energy flows through the land like a raging river and dangerous creatures changed the magic of the Veil hunt those that misuse the magic. The Agama Stone is the name of the Opal Crystal that she wears around her neck and its dangerous powers are often unleashed as her emotions change and the powers it holds can destroy. What she learns about her parents will solidify her need to succeed and what he finds out about her father, who many say is dead, will surprise her. Could he be a terrible criminal who has allied himself with Amina? Would he join in her quest to destroy Fallmoon Gap and did he play a part in killing everyone she loved? But, lies and betrayals are about to come front and center as Opal learns the truth about her father, just who he really and the real reason Amina wants to take down Fallmoon Gap. Lessons from the Wardens of the Protectorate will not stop what this evil witch as set in motion. Promises to resurrect someone from the dead if Opal is sacrificed prove deadly but for whom? With her teachers and trainers Eltheon, Luka, Tirian, Jakob and others Opal learns the true meaning of loyalty, trust and friendship at all costs. It all began in Liberty Creek and the people there sent something to those in Fallmoon Gap. Something so powerful and beautiful: a crystal disc of great beauty made to pay tribute to her late mother. But, there is much more before the story is done and the ending is revealed. Evil reigns, killings take place, more loved ones are destroyed and the end is near unless Opal and Tirian and figure out the real reason and the real source of power that will allow Maggie/Amina to feed, keep her monsters alive and allow her to win this dangerous war.

 

Opal learns some hard lessons about life as she comes face to face in a battle with Amina but who turns on her and who caused the death of so many in Liberty Creek you won’t believe. Her necklace stolen, a conjurer using its power but who was working with the conjurer and who would protect Opal as the author provides subtle twist readers won’t see coming. The final battle is run, lives are lost, weapons are drawn, truths are revealed and the final outcome of the Veil at stake. But, just as Opal faces off with her enemies something happens that would turn the tables against her. Can she kill the conjurer? Will she save those she loves? How many more will dies before the fight is over? The Agama Stone so powerful and dangerous only one person can control and handle its magic. Emotions rise the power of the stone changes the results magical. What happens to those that survive? What is the truth about her father? Is this really over or is someone hiding in plain sight that lets readers know that the fight to protect the Veil is not over and Opal’s battle has just begun. The magic of the Ozark Mountains is breathtaking. Join Opal as she learns about the power of the many gem stones and crystals as you the reader can join her in class as you read pages 216-217 and learn just which stones you might want to borrow or have in order to be protected, be able to destroy, sense danger and divine the future. Opal is a young teen that is outspoken, rebellious, smart, a quick learner, headstrong but most of all loyal to those she loves. Meet the other Wardens, take the classes, learn the history behind the Protectorate and be ready for the next adventure. Loyalty, friendship, racism, prejudice, caring, understanding and hope are just some of the important issues that the characters learn within the pages of this novel. Teens will love Opal as adults will love Sugar and Jakob. So take the journey into the Ozarks but remember to wear your own Agama Stone to stay safe.

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Let’s give this one five blue sapphires which are my favorite stones and of course will protect everyone from the dangers of Amina.

 

 

Dialogues of a Crime

Dialogues of A Crime: John K. Manos

 

Crimes are committed everyday and those in charge of the arrest and incarceration of the suspect or suspects involved handle each suspect accordingly. Within the criminal system not everything is handled in a legal or proper manner and sometimes the suspect is wrongly accused and at other times could be forced to enter a plea that will cause that person a lifetime in prison, a short stint inside for no reason or a result that most would never expect. Dialogues of a Crime is unique story or journey inside the mind of 19 year old Michael Pollitz from the moment you open to the first page, meet him and learn just how fast someone can be arrested, convicted and placed in a cell without anyone looking back. Drugs are definitely one of the number one problems colleges have to deal with today. Many students sell, use or run their own businesses out of their rooms, on campus or maybe even online. But, this story opens in 1972 in Michael’s dorm room where the police come crashing through, take him in, not answering his questions as to why he’s being connected but the hint of something wrong and definitely underhanded comes through.

 

The setting is Chicago and anyone that knows that city will attest to the fact that the Chicago Mob reigned and no one would dare to challenge them. Michael Pollitz was best friends with the son who ran what they called the mob, the Outfit and as a result became part of their operation, a pawn in their midst and a connection they would exploit. Friendships are tested from the start as Michael relates his arrest and legal problems to crime boss Dom Calabria who offers to provide the legal help he needs. But, Michael faces a more serious problem when relating this to his father. Virtue, honesty and integrity are questioned as Michael’s father gives him a ultimatum that would ultimately cost him more than just a stint in jail. Legal problems when it comes to drugs can lead to longer sentences and when Michael enlists the help of a public defender rather than fight he pleads guilty hoping for a lighter sentence, probation and hopefully no fine. But this college student would learn the inner workings of the prison within the first ten days and realize that some fights are worthy of your time and the advice given by lawyers in this case not sound. When deciding whether to respect his father’s sense of fairness and right from wrong the reader will have to decide just who is responsible for the end result and why. As Michael’s fate is described, his time in the infirmary and the causes of his injuries the reader hears his voice as he plans to take action against those not only beat him but raped him as well. Methodically, carefully and with definitely calm and coldness, Michael takes on his three assailants in a unique and powerful way sending a message to them and anyone else about their fate.

Exiting the prison and finally under the protection of the guards, the reader will learn just how close to the Outfit and its leadership Michael is and wants to become. Will he venture to work for them, will he do as he says before leaving the prison. The author will then describe the fate of the two of the men when the story moves to 1994. Listening to the voices of the police officers that are about to investigate the case twenty years later we meet CPD Detective Larry Klinger who dives in head-on in order to reopen this cold case that stemmed from a murder that happened 20 years ago. But the Detective is hungry for a case that will set his investigative juices on high alert and get him more motivated. Meeting with the prison guards that worked in Astoria Adult Correctional Facility  in 1972 he forms his own opinion of the events, the murders of two inmates and the assault on Michael. Tracking him down with the help of the guards and meeting him would yield limited information. When Michael is confronted with the real reason Klinger wanted to meet him, he immediately turns to the those he shares his allegiance with and things begin to heat up.

 

Author John Manos depicts Michael as an innocent young man turned hard in jail. Thinking that his record and arrest were expunged he learns a hard lesson when the confronted with his past. Protected by the mob and those he considers his family will he continue to protect them or will he turn? One informant hoping to plea bargain his way out of a life sentence and hoping to take down Michael and save his own soul, author John Manos brings to light to what length the police will go to in order to get their man, solve a case and take down anyone involved. But, after so many years, just who is to blame and is this informant telling the entire truth? Who really killed those inmates? As you read the prologue a mental picture will come into place and you decide the image that you see and what the author is telling you. But, Calabria is close to Michael and family but the men working for him are killers. Dialogue of Crimes: each character relates the facts as he sees or witnessed them. Bobby Andrews the informant, Michael, Klinger from what he puts together, John and Dom: each voice heard loud and clear and it is up to the reader to decide which you believe. The dialogue is crisp, authentic and definitely is indicative of the personality and job of each character.

Klinger decides to befriend Michael and the reader gets many different images of him from the various people interviewed. His ex-wife Carole presents a picture of a man that is indifferent, cold, distant and would never kill anyone. Speaking with others and managing to tape a conversation he had with someone else you get a totally different image of Michael. When told about the third man in his beating being killed, his indifference comes through, the air seems chilled around him and the reader becomes aware of just how cunning he really is as he turns the tables on Klinger, doing his homework and learn his secrets and then finding out about the death of his son. Two men caught up in their own pasts but which one will survive the future?

 

Justice, friendships, loyalties, betrayals, harboring guilt are just some of the issues brought to light in this novel. One young man sentenced to jail time because he walked two men into his apartment to buy drugs is arrested. Reminding readers that he hear about this in the news on a daily basis and that drug-related crimes have strict guidelines when it comes to presenting a sentence.

Hypothetical situations are discussed as Michael cleverly weaves his own spin on the events from the past bringing the situation front and center in the present hoping to ward off Klinger by explaining his definition of justice. As the situation heats up and Michael and Klinger discuss his friendship with Dom and his son John, it comes to light the history that caused him to side with his father’s wishes, his relationship with The Outfit and his take on justice.

 

When the final judgment is passed and the verdict read you won’t believe who remains and who does not. As Klinger and Michael form an unusual friendship and someone else decides to undue a lie, just what is discovered about that murder in 1972? Just who is really guilty and should anyone care about the murder of two prisoners after what they did the Michael and others too? What about Bobby Andrews? Who silenced him? What about Klinger? What is his definition of justice? Is Michael guilty? Should he pay for his crime? Did he commit one?

Unspoken truths are often the hardest to sort out. As Michael and Klinger continue to play a game of tag, you begin to see an underlying theme that emerges. A newfound trust or friendship comes about and an ending that will leave readers with many unanswered questions, puzzles that are incomplete and information to interpret on their own to decide who meted out the justice, who is really guilty and why some might say: unspoken truths are often heard the loudest. One murder/mystery/thriller where readers can decide and choose the ending on their own from the facts presented by each character when we hear their own interpretation of: Dialogue of a Crime.

Fran Lewis: reviewer

The Curse of Betrayal

The Curse of Betrayal.

The Curse of Betrayal: My review

The Curse of Betrayal: Taylor Lavati

 

Ryder Mason is about entering The Demi God Academy and learns the real meaning of the word betrayal. Ryder whose real name is Eurydice finds herself deep inside her own mind with fears, nightmares, visions, dreams and doubts about herself that might prevent her from developing her powers. Entering the school she finds here face to face with Ari yet thinking about Ollie her first love in the first chapter of her life titled A Thousand Year Curse. But author Taylor Lavati hits the mark when readers get to learn more about Ryder, her fears about losing Ari but even more her search and goal for acceptance. Ryder was bullied by a girl named Becca and now that she has grown stronger in both body and mind she hopes to combat any fears of being bullied by anyone and hopefully will defend herself. Taking her life back in her own hands she meets Kara her roommate forming a close friendship from the start. Understanding and sensing Ryder’s apprehension with meeting too many people at first and not wanting to befriend everyone at once they take it slow. But, Lisa seems to be the new Becca and influences others against Ryder but she won’t stand for it this time. Learning more about Kara and then meeting Megan she seems to calm her nerves but in the forefront or back of her mind is her past. Remembering her love for Ollie yet finding a new romance with Ari it becomes quite clear that she will have to eventually make a choice.

Ari is now one of her professors and with the aid of his assistant Magdelina who seems bent on getting the good professor into her bed, Ryder uses every ounce of self-control not to punch her out during class every time she comes on to Ari. But, Ryder is young and naïve and often has many missteps and misunderstandings run high. At the end of novel one both Ollie and Ari made a pact to leave her alone until the curse is broken and she decides who her true soul mate is. Ryder although independent and strong has visions of the past and even the future and with the help of Professor Onassis, she hopes to begin to understand these dreams, the nightmare where she revisits with Hermes and Hades and the reoccurring dream too graphic to relate to readers. Ryder learns as strange things begin to happen at this Academy that she cannot hide from her past and she must learn to use her powers to protect not only herself but her new friends too.

As Ryder begins to settle into a routine things start to happen that create friction between her and Ari bring Ollie back to her side and test friendships and loyalties. All the while hoping that somehow she would be able to connect with her mother who when she does appear tells her it is not time yet, confusing her and trying to forewarn her of what happens next. With the help of a kindly 500-year-old professor named Onassis together they research the history of the curse trying to learn more about it and hopefully break it. But, when an unknown attacker kills two students and then the campus is under siege Kara and Ryder along with Ollie and Ari fend off the demons but the end result will change things drastically. As Kara and Ryder are hurt and Kara had been attacked before, things point to the fact the presence just might have something to do with what is happening. Fear strikes and her feelings are conflicted as she realizes the time might come or has come to decide between Ari and Ollie. A dream or vision enrages her and the art of meditation taught to her by Onassis helps control her emotions, allows her to see the dream in a different light sending her in a different direction. But, although the school was under siege, Hades and Hermes were present we learn more about Ryder’s insecurities, fears, distrust and hate for Magdelina and her hope that someday she and Ari would be together. There is much more to this story besides the jealousies, daring dares, games that are played, strength class that tests more than just strength, the insecurities and the bonds that are made or fostered between Kara and Ryder and even Junior and Ollie. But, in the back of her mind Ryder realizes that much of what is happening at the school is related to the curse, feels it’s her fault. With the professors on her side and understanding that she needs support, will the fear that is ingrained and instilled in her go away? Will more students or teachers be attacked? When Professor Nike questions the assailant he learns nothing from them? Just who else is behind this and what will Ryder do in order to protect her friends and those she loves?

 

Author Taylor Lavati takes readers inside the mind of a young girl whose insecurities get the best of her. Whose loyalties to her friends are undeniable and whose fear that a thousand year curse might cause more people to be injured or die. Why did Hades choose her? Why was she the recipient of this curse? What does it mean to be Eurydice and how will being her affect the lives of others? But, this story is far from over as Ryder finds herself in a dream along with her dream self and her mother. Finding out what she thinks is the truth about why her mother is missing, who she thinks is the reason creates more than just a mental breakdown for Ryder. A retreat that would cost someone their life as the demons come back and try to finish what the know Hermes and Hades started. Just what does Ryder think is the reason she is being sought after by the underworld. When you are curses you need to find out the reason why and then find out what the end result is supposed to be and you must end it! But, when the truth comes out and the final body count is tallied just who stands in her way and who needs to get out of her line of fire? Throughout the novel the author allows readers to understand the tense relationship between Ryder and her father. When he reveals his knowledge and the untold truths are finally out in the open will she be able to bond with the only person she might be able to trust?

 

A school that has become too dangerous and had to be closed and an ending that you just won’t expect. The clever twist at the end will alert readers that you just might not know who or what really betrayed Ryder. Listen to the voice of someone who claims to care for her and you decide whether it’s a lie. Violence, deaths, pranks, games and only one person who hopes to gain from it all. Will Ryder be able to break the curse? Who is behind this and Why? Listen to the startling message she receives and learn that the story is far from over and we need to wait I might add impatiently until our creative and talented author pens the final chapter in this trilogy. What will the fate of Ari, Ollie and Ryder be? Who is her true soul mate? Who can she trust? Explosive, riveting, fast paced and frightening: The Curse of Betrayal: A great story of friendship, deceit, lies, betrayals, trust, insecurities and hope. Ryder: A teen whose emotions are so bottled up that when she explodes more than just her emotions are involved. A character that is quite realistic as the author allows her to react in a way that most teens would not always as a grown-up, temper tantrums and often not thinking about the outcome. This is one book for all YA’s to read to learn the true meaning of what it is to be a friend and what is the definition of trust.

 

The more blood of a god you have in your body or system, the more effective the curse will be. Think about that. Hades did the curse for a reasonWhat will Ryder have to do to stop the curse and get her life and mother back? Lisa, Megan, Mikey, Kara, Junior, Ollie, Ari and Cristos: Who will be left to cast the next spell and break the curse? Who pays for what someone else wants do dearly? . Find out in Volume three the reason why and the outcome that Hades wants to happen that he has written down when the author pens the next chapter in the life of Ryder and the rest of the Demi Gods.

 

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

 

 

 

 

 

Eyes Closed Tight: Peter Leonard

Eyes Closed Tight: Peter Leonard.

7 Grams of Lead: My five star review

7 Grams of Lead: Keith Thomson

 

 

Two Russians brought to America and placed in a special facility in order to create the perfect EBomb. Within the facility someone is watching over them and wants to make sure that the Ebomb is created and that there are no loose ends when the final product is made. Just who is behind this and why do we hear the voice of POTUS at the start of the novel is the work of a creative, devious and deadly assassin and operative named Canning. But, first he has many players within his realm of destruction to take out of the equation hoping at the end to reap the monetary benefits.

 

Russ Thornton is a journalist and blogger who gets in the way of Canning and is about to learn more than he wants revealed when meeting with an old flame named Catherine Peretti. But, Catherine and Russ take many different routes, enter the Statan Island Ferry and find themselves trying to escape anyone that might be following them. But sometimes all the best-laid plans fall short and when the enter Au Pain and take their seats someone comes out of nowhere and ends her life. This is just the beginning for Russ Thornton as he’s fate is now sealed as he’s taken away along with the late Catherine and unknowing to him someone manages to implant a listening and tracking device in his head and hopes to you might say hack into his brain in order to know his ever move. Smart, persistent and definitely astute Russ plans on finding out who planted the bug and hopefully getting it removed. Peretti and a Capitol Hill staffer, is about to disclose something important to him but when is killed right in front of his eyes and now the chase begins to outrun, outfox and gain the insight to the technology that has been created to destroy entire cities with one push of a detonator.

 

Thinking out loud he contacts an operative at the NSA hoping that O’Clair will provide the answers to how to remove the device and hopefully learn its origin. But, things begin to heat up as the author takes center and us front into the political arena listening to Beryl Mallery and her opponent debate. Odd information comes to light as Beryl wonders how this man learned about her indiscretions and policies.

 

Information comes at a high price as we flashback to the beginning and learn more about Canning and his goals. Hoping to implant the listening and tracking device in the brains of both Bella and Leo Sokolov something fails and Leo dies. Bella’s implant is a success allowing him to follow her every move, the safe house she was taken to and her decision to not go back to work. When she finally gives in little does she know that those that she is teaching and instructing could be using what they learn to their advantage and someone is listening to it all?

 

Hoping to have the device removed Thornton and O’Clair devises a plan but not everyone and everything is what it seems. Allowing him to know that if they have two devices and both are removed he might be able to find out where the signal is coming from and locate the receiver, Thornton enlists the help of the Senate hopeful Mallory knowing that she has an implant. But, just when you think you know what will happen next you don’t’ as author Keith Thomson throws a curve bomb or ball you might say right at the reader and things change as O’Clair becomes another expendable casualty in the quest for money, power and much more.

Two FBI agents are working to learn more about Thornton and when you understand just who is behind what is about to happen to him next, who wants him out of the way and why you will shudder. No one can be trusted and there is so much corruption within each agency it is hard to tell just who Thornton might be relies on. But, first he is kidnapped, tortured, prodded and probed, starved and placed in a cell that would make anyone else lose their lunch and mind hoping that the end would be near but not Russ. Just when he thought he would not survive someone comes to his rescue but he’s far from out of the woods as one of his rescuers is not what he appears to be and just how he handles it lets you know he’s no one to fool with and he’s back in the game.

 

“Joseph Stalin’s solution to a problem was “seven grams of lead to the head.” As the story began Sokolov was believed to have been brought to the United States to work for the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency: DARPA, which dealt with the global positioning system, the computer mouse, ARPANET, which included the Internet. Could this bullet be a strong message to anyone in Russia that wants to defect? Or does it mean something else? When journalist and blogger Russ Thornton adds a notation to his posting about this bullet it sends shockwaves down the spine of a dangerous killer. The technology author Keith Thomson describes within Chapter 9 is mindboggling. The range of destruction and the capabilities of some of these weapons unbelievable. But, when you learn more about Peter Canning, what his real agenda is and what he is trying to do, you begin to see the depth of his anger, his mode of destruction yet wonder if anyone will be able to stop what he has planned. Just who does he want to sell is he making an offer for the EBOMB and the formula to make more? Why? What will he gain and how many lives will be taken?

 

Listen to the encrypted phone call and code words used between Canning and a man called Rapada. Understand that failure is not an option and that no one is immune to his wrath. Senator Langlid what role does he plays and where does he fit into this dangerous equation? How did he learn about Mallery and where did the Intel come from that would give him the senate seat and cause her loss? A listening device implanted in your brain allowing you to learn government secrets, use it as a weapon against anyone that comes up against you and allows you the ability to know what businesses and multi-millionaires have planned? What would you do with this power called “Little Bird”? What happens when Thornton gets too close? A remote so deadly you won’t see it coming but the explosion and impact just might be deadly. What did Mallory and Thornton find out when they break into Windward Actuarial? What happens to foil their efforts? What did they learn that might break it wide open and reveal all of the players? Phones calls and conversations revealed, information about what Catherine Peretti might have seen and seven grams of lead plugged in her brain. Was it to silence her or was it as Thornton says merely a diversion to get them off track dealing with the death of Leonid Sokolov and the reason why Little Bird failed in him but not in his wife? Special Agents so corrupt, a government agency behind it all: What did Catherine see that got her killed you won’t believe it? An ending so explosive you won’t see it coming and the final fate of Mallery and Thornton cannot be revealed, as it is too dangerous to reveal to the reader. Seven Grams of Lead: All the answers to these questions and more will be revealed to readers when you read this FIVE STAR NOVEL.

 

Russ Thornton is a solid character whose persistence and determination to bring down whoever is behind what happened to Catherine and took the lives of so many others. Seven Grams of Lead: Be careful: Who will get it next? Let’s hope the author brings back Russ in another novel using his journalistic skills to solve a crime.

 

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

Providence Rag: My review

Providence Rag: Bruce Desilva

 

Imagine someone that spends every waking hour dreaming about his next kill. Imagine enjoying the smell of burnt flesh, the stench of a dead body and the sight of a mutilated animal. A serial killer finds different ways to torture, kill, maim and obliterate a life. Kwame Diggs enjoys hunting and staking out his victims, watching them go about their everyday lives and quietly sneaking into their homes and killing them. Gore does not deter him. Screams are stifled and witnesses non-existent. Kwame Diggs feels justified in his actions and thinks the world owes him something but what no one really knows. From a young age he enjoyed taking apart insects, burning cats and dogs and destroying his own sister’s Barbie Doll collection smiling as he hammered away at each of the doll’s limbs. Kwame Diggs thought he was clever and would never get caught. Killing two young women and their children, two years apart was the just tip of the iceberg. Attacking another woman and leaving her permanently scarred only makes his dreams of what he might do if he is ever freed more vivid, hardboiled and frightening. What would you do if you thought this man was about to be released from prison? Rhode Island has an antiquated law stating that juveniles are to be released from prison at age 21 regardless of the severity of the crime. Bone chilling to say the least! When the scale of justice is even and it is about to be tipped in the wrong direction freeing this man and one other killer, would you bend the law, plant evidence, create situations and lie in order to make sure he never sees the light of day? Moral and ethical values are tested to the limit and two close friends are about to become rivals and go head to head as author Bruce DeSilva brings back his most powerful character, Liam Mulligan to fight for the safety of so many and the safety of a small community.

 

Liam Mulligan is a sports reporter for the Providence Dispatch until his editor Ed Lomax requested his help on a different story. A young woman and her daughter were murdered in 1992 and the killer remains at large. Teaming up with Detective Andy Jennings they scour the neighborhood, question witnesses, unknowingly even the killer, but no arrest is made. Two years down the line he strikes again but not before he does damage in different ways. Mulligan is persistent, hardnosed and once again teams up with Andy Jennings but this time something will change. Cruising the small community of Warwick he sees a young black teen on a bike. One simple clue would awaken something in Mulligan and the next thing you know they might have their killer but first some legwork needs to be done. Becky Medeiros and her four-year-old daughter were his first victims and Connie Stuart and her two daughters were next. With an arsenal of help at his fingertips and the cooperation of the police, labs and others this young reporter manages to help catch a killer. But, there is much more to this murder and the arrest. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Confession on tape, in prison for six years this young man was never released because people inside and outside worked the legal system to find creative ways to make sure that he served more time. Eighteen years to be exact and now the law says he might be released and the charges against him that were filed keeping him in prison were faked, lies and if proven others will go down.

 

Edward Mason works for the Dispatch and decides to go on a one-man crusade to find out why Diggs was not released and if the evidence was tampered. Ed Lomax is the chief editor of the Dispatch and must decide which side to take, how to handle the controversy and if Mason should be allowed to continue with his investigation which might result in Diggs being freed. With Mulligan’s limited help, interviewing prison guards in Supermax, hearing the voice of Kwame Diggs telling him why he committed the murders readers will have to decide whether he is deranged, was framed or should be committed. As Mulligan managed to put Kwame behind bars, just how far will Mason go to free him? Edward Mason is the publisher’s son. Whose side will the publisher take? Subscriptions being pulled, advertising down just how far will the publisher goes to save the Dispatch?

 

Mason is determined to pen a profile of this killer and with the help of Diggs new lawyer a beautiful blonde named, Felicia, he manages to interview him. Killers are smart, cunning and often convincing when the listener does not have a trained ear for lies, deceits and wants to believe what he says. Claiming he killed all of these white women, who are blonds because of racial slurs, comments and being treated as a pariah in his community, Mason takes his word as gospel and when he lies the truth things take on a different turn.

 

Law enforcement agencies are supposed to protect the rights of all citizens so when Kwame came up for release why did so many team up to make sure he remained inside? His incarceration was legal but the extension of it unethical and Mulligan and Mason fight on opposite sides, putting many lives in danger to protect the innocent, the public and the rights of one man who does not warrant anyone really caring. Moral decisions and ethical choices are at the center of this complex novel bringing to light many issues regarding both our legal and prison systems.

 

Each step of the way Mulligan, enlists the help of many close friends as he reunites with the Governor of Rhode Island hoping she will give him the information he needs to keep this man in prison. Working feverishly with her to find new evidence to make sure that he is never released will they succeed or will it be too late? But the Attorney General brings information to light, the judge listens to both sides and a verdict is rendered.  Should those that lied, planted evidence perjured themselves and broke the law to keep others safe be held liable? With Mulligan working closely with the police and Mason with Kwame’s lawyer which side will succeed in their quest but can there be a clear winner?

 

What would you do if you were the presiding judge and had to decide if the state presented enough evidence to keep this man inside? What would you do to balance or tip the scales of justice in the right direction? A decision so controversial and a killer so diabolical you won’t believe the final result. Based on real life events this killer confesses to the crime and is convicted as a minor. But, history was made when the state law stating juveniles as adults could not be applied retroactively. His crimes so horrific that it was the opinion of the state’s psychologists that he could not be rehabilitated. Vigilante justice, mobs, threats against correction officers, judges, reporters, lawyers and violations of probation rights, extortion and even refusing to allow doctors to test him allowed the courts to give him more prison time. But, claiming he was jailed due to racism and breaking into the homes of two young women, smoking weed and stabbing victims countless times yet showing as you can tell when you hear his voice within this novel that he enjoyed his work and could not wait for his next kill. Just where is this killer now and what was his final fate? Two reporters on opposite sides of the scale of justice. Just where will the gavel land?

 

Author Bruce DeSilva brings to light many issues within this five star novel. Lies, deceits and cover-ups revealed but should they go unpunished? A man so dangerous that releasing him might endanger his own mother. Liam Mulligan and Edward Mason: two outstanding reporters each having a different style. Liam persistent, strong, careful and meticulous when researching a story. Mason hoping to get that major first page byline and headline learning the ropes.

 

Courthouse drama, a judge, Attorney General and a Lawyer that put it all on the line: Kwame Diggs: Freed or Remained in incarcerated! If you were the judge how would you rule? Surprises every step of the way and a killer whose words will send chills down your spine and a reporter who is relentless. Providence Rag: DeSilva and Mulligan at their best.

 

Let’s give this Five Golden Brand New Tires for Secretariat.

Fran Lewis: reviewer