Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore Update – #Reviews – #Romance Lisette Brodey, #History #NorthernIreland Jane Buckley, #psychologicalthriller Lucinda E. Clarke

Welcome to the Monday edition of the Cafe and bookstore with recent reviews for authors on the shelves.

The first author today with a recent review is Lisette Brodey for Love, Look Away

About the book

Twenty-nine-year-old Sage Gordon has had it with love. When she’s not busy running her metaphysical gift shop in the old-money town of Swansea, New York, she’s content with the company of her dog and two cats.

Years ago, the boy she thought she’d marry some day disappeared in the middle of the night and was never heard from again. Haunted by the loss of Jimmy, she remains wary about love, until she is set up with a gorgeous NYC marketing executive. Love moves quickly, and she finds herself engaged — but if only he had betrayed her before she sent out the save-the-date cards.

Sage reverts to her former mindset: love, look away. Forever. Despite her best efforts, though, two completely different yet wonderful men enter her life. Still haunted by the past, can she let romance back into her life?

AUTHOR’S NOTE: Love, Look Away is set in the same fictional town (Swansea, NY) as my first romantic comedy, Molly Hacker Is Too Picky! This book is not, however, a sequel or a series. Love, Look Away is a stand-alone novel. Some readers will recognize several characters from Molly, including Molly herself, playing supporting roles.

And to readers who have never read Molly, but who may wish to do so, rest assured this novel does not give away the ending.

One of the recent reviews for the book

Sue L. Janson 5.0 out of 5 stars Ms. . Brodey has done it again.  Reviewed in the United States on September 25, 2021

I always enjoy Lisette Brodey’s books, especially the ones with a comedic flare. I loved her book, MOLLY HACKER IS TOO PICKY, so was delighted to see that LOVE LOOK AWAY, is set in the same town of Swansea, NY and that Molly was back even as a minor character in this book. Sage, owner of Sage Earth Gifts, a metaphysical shop, is through with men since being recently jilted by her finance’, Caleb, when he ran off with her best friend. But, Ms. Brodey artfully reminds us that one should never say NEVER. Not only does she bring Caleb back, but also introduces two other men into Sage’s “no more men for me” life. Godiva, the hired on the spot, partner in Sage Earth’s Gifts is a godsend for the shop and a perfect fit and voice of reason into Sage’s upheaveled life. The animal lover in me, appreciates that Sage’s constant companion is of the canine variety. I am not compelled to give away more of the story in this review, as I want readers to experience it first hand.

This delightful story has just the right touch of snarky people, intertwined with twists, turns and a surprise ending, that I was not expecting. It is also filled with many humorous and poignant moments. Ms. Brodey is a wonderful storyteller and I highly recommend this book to everyone. It is a refreshing relief from the crazy world in which we seem to be living.

A selection of books by Lisette Brodey

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Follow Lisette: Goodreads – Website/blog: Lisette Brodey – Twitter: @LisetteBrodey – Facebook: Lisette.Brodey

The next review is for the latest release by Jane Buckley – Stones Corner: Darkness the sequel to Stones Corner: Turmoil.

About the Book

From Turmoil to Darkness, an unapologetic account of the darkest years of ‘The Troubles’ in Northern Ireland.

Darkness follows the next instalment from author Jane Buckley’s Stones Corner, Turmoil.

Relive the harrowing and very troubled years of the early ’70s, considered the darkest years of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Following on from the catastrophic fall-out from the doomed Derry City Hotel meeting, the impact of the disaster has far reaching consequences for communities already divided and distrustful of each other.

Following the lives of so many, from the wealthy, vibrant James Henderson to the love-struck factory girl Caitlin McLaughlin and her family, you cannot help but be drawn in and empathise with the civilians caught up in a raging unrelentless war they want no part in.

All the while the guerrilla war in the province gains momentum as it extends to mainland Britain and the Irish Republic. Darkness takes us from the dank hellhole of the overpopulated Victorian Armagh Women’s Gaol to London’s lavish, opulent private clubs.

An unmerciful and harrowing tale, it endeavours to illustrate what life was like for Ulster’s war-torn, sectarian communities. It captures a story of conflict, survival of the fittest, and victims who attempt to live and love against a background of chaos and carnage.

Hope is deemed lost and forgotten until the power of love, truth, and justice steps in to create Light and a new beginning.

One of the recent reviews for the book on Goodreads

Oct 18, 2021 Martin rated it five stars it was amazing

The wait for this sequel was frustrating but very much worth it. Like I’ve read in other reviews it was hard to put it down. Absolutely riveting. The story moves from character to character , it’s very easy to follow she has a knack of reminding you where you left off. Can’t wait wait for the last two volumes. The books have got me back into reading again.

Also by Jane Buckley

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US – Follow Jane:Goodreads – website: Jane Buckley Writes – Facebook:Jane Buckley Writes – Twitter:@janebuckley_sc

The final author today is Lucinda E. Clarke for the first book in the series A Year in the Life Of.. Leah Brand.

About the book

Leah was unemployed, broke, and desperate.

A few years earlier, a fatal car crash took the lives of Leah’s beloved husband and their two babies, leaving her disabled. Life looked bleak.

Then she met Mason.

He was charming, charismatic, persuasive, and a successful businessman, well respected in the community. His teenage daughter did nothing to welcome Leah into the family, but life is never perfect.

And the nightmares began the day the dog died…

Two years into her second marriage, Leah Brand’s world is turned upside down. Inanimate objects move, her clothes are left out for the rubbish collection, there are unexplained noises and hauntings.

Everyone accuses Leah of losing her mind.

Soon she begins to doubt herself and she starts to spiral down into a world of insanity. Is she going mad, or is someone out to destroy her? And if so, why?

One of the recent reviews for the book

dorothy garrett 5.0 out of 5 stars A review for all 4 books in this series.  Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 23 September 2021

There are 4 books in this series and I recommend reading them all, in order to appreciate how these 4 women’s lives are cleverly entwined. I read the first book – A year in the life of Leah Brand and then the last one – A year in the life of Belinda Brand. I immediately had to buy the 2nd and 3rd books in the series and then read them all in succession. From Leah, who finds herself manipulated and abused by the people who should look after her, through to the coming of age of Belinda, who we watch make many mistakes along her journey to adulthood, with little guidance, except from the unwavering support of Leah herself. Many exciting twists and turns befall all 4 characters.

A selection of books by Lucinda E. Clarke

Read the reviews and buy the books : Amazon US – And : Amazon UK – Blog: WordPress Lucinda E. Clarke — Follow Lucinda: Goodreads – Twitter: @LucindaEClarke

 

Thanks for dropping by today and I hope you are leaving with some books.. thanks Sally.

 

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore Update – #Reviews – #Poetry Colleen M. Chesebro, #psychologicalthriller Lucinda E. Clarke, #Memoir Brigid P. Gallagher

Welcome to the first of the cafe updates this week with recent reviews for authors on the shelves.

The first author today is Colleen M. Chesebro with a recent review for Word Craft Prose & Poetry.

About the guide and collection

Are you ready to learn how to craft Japanese and American poetry? Consider this book the first step on your journey to learning the basics of how to craft syllabic poetry. Inside, you will discover many new forms, syllable combinations, and interpretations of the different Japanese and American forms and structures of haiku, senryu, haiga, tanka, renga/solo renga, gogyohka, haibun, tanka prose, the cinquain, and its variations, Etheree, nonet, and shadorma poetry.

So… what are you waiting for? Let’s craft syllabic poetry together!

A recent review for the guide and poetry collection

Jul 26, 2021 Adele Marie Marie rated it five stars

Whether you already write poetry or, like me, want to learn how to create poems, then this book, Word Craft Prose and Poetry by Colleen M Chesebro is the only book you need.
The chapters are introduced with the history of the poetic form which is fascinating and useful. The author takes care to gently introduce you into the world of the form and then gives coherent examples and easily followed instructions.

I adore this workbook and will enjoy trying out all the poetry forms contained inside. 5 stars for Colleen M Chesebro as she works tirelessly to bring poetry into the mainstream showing that, if you wish, you too can write beautiful forms of poetry with words that will lift the spirit or give understanding. Truly a magical book. 

Also by Colleen M. Chesebro

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And:Amazon UK – Goodreads: Colleen at Goodreads – Website Wordcraft poetry – Author blog: Colleen Chesebro – Twitter: @ColleenChesebro

The next author with a recent review is Lucinda E. Clarke  for the psychological thriller – A Year in the Life of Belinda Brand.

About the book

Belinda Brand becomes an overnight sensation when Hollywood offers to make a film of her runaway bestseller. A confident, modern woman, she has the world at her feet – and a secret she is convinced no one will ever discover. Leah, her gentle and long-suffering stepmother will guess, but she would never betray her, or would she?

When menacing notes appear after the Awards ceremony in London and then follow her across the Atlantic, Belinda realizes someone is threatening to expose her.

As she struggles to stay calm, her best friend disappears, Belinda’s celebrity life turns into a nightmare and there is no one she can trust.

If the Brand family thought they could lead a quiet, normal life, they were wrong. Danger continues to lurk in the shadows.

A fast-paced, page-turning psychological thriller, full of surprises, twists, and turns.

For fans of Karin Slaughter, Claire McGowan, Valerie Keogh, and Liane Moriarty.

One of the recent reviews for the book

Rebecca H 5.0 out of 5 stars Fast paced and fantastic!  Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 4 July 2021

This is the fourth book in this brilliant series of psychological thrillers. This time it’s Belinda, Leah’s errant stepdaughter who features in the starring role. Amazingly, she has written a bestselling novel and won an award. Fame beckons and soon she is winging her way to LA as the film rights to her book have been sold and she will be fêted as the author.

Ostensibly in charge is her rather devious agent Pamela, who also has her own problems.
Naturally, things were going wrong before Belinda even left London. She had been receiving threatening letters and foolishly believed that she would be safe in America, especially with her friend Rosheen for company. How wrong could she be?

This is another fast paced and well plotted story with so many twists and turns I was quite breathless! I really didn’t want to put this book down at all. Kidnappings, crooks, car chases, sleazy film moguls what a roller coaster of a tale. I loved seeing Leah making an appearance towards the end and let’s hope all’s well that ends well but … who knows with a master storyteller like Lucinda E Clarke in charge. A super series. Highly recommended.

A selection of books by Lucinda E. Clarke

Read the reviews and buy the books : Amazon US – And : Amazon UK – Blog: WordPress Lucinda E. Clarke — Follow Lucinda: Goodreads – Twitter: @LucindaEClarke

The final review is for Brigid P. Gallagher for her memoir that shares her experiences and also strategies to overcome chronic illness in Watching for the Daisies.

About the book

Millions of people around the world suffer from fibromyalgia; the majority of them are women. As yet, there is no cure.

In this memoir, Brigid P. Gallagher shares her experiences on:

• The busy life she followed before succumbing to this debilitating disease
• Stopping and soul searching for answers to her vast array of symptoms
• Entering a new life of SLOW

Drawing on her knowledge and experience as a Natural Medicines therapist, she seeks out therapies to aid her healing and integrates a variety of self help techniques and lifestyle changes. She also unearths a love of solo travel including Egypt, India, Rome, Lourdes, Carcassonne and Bali…

Brigid learns many insights about LIFE on her journey, the most valuable being: “First learn to love thyself.”

In 2006, she began a new career in Organic Horticulture eventually teaching part time in schools. Although she has now retired from teaching, she continues to pursue her lifelong passion for gardening and watching the daisies.

One of the recent reviews for the book

Helen Stephenson 5.0 out of 5 stars A healing journey shared Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 25 July 2021

Watching the Daisies is a gentle description of Brigid’s pursuit of both spiritual and physical healing. Throughout her healing journey she posts little tips, those insights which have been prompted by that phase of her life.

I was delighted when she turned to gardening, a skill which she shared with many children through her work.

Brigid’s family, and her various homes, are described with real love and she delights in describing all the beautiful places she has visited and people she has met.

A gentle read, with a charming guide who is continually adding to her treasure trove of healing knowledge, with a totally open mind.  

Brigid P. Gallagher, Buy: Amazon UK – and: Amazon US – Follow Brigid on : Goodreads – Blog: Watching the Daisies – Twitter: @watchingthedai1

 

Thanks for dropping in today and I hope you are leaving with some books..Sally

 

 

 

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore – Meet the Authors -#PsychologicalThriller Lucinda E. Clarke, #Thriller John L. DeBoer, #War #Dogs Patricia Furstenberg

There are over 150 authors in the Cafe and Bookstore and I wanted to keep it to key pieces of information such as buying links, recent review, website and covers. However, I know that readers also like to know more about the background of authors.

In this series during June and July I will share the bios of all the authors in the cafe in a random selection. I hope that this will introduce you to the authors in more depth and encourage you to check out their books and follow them on their blog and Twitter.

Meet Lucinda E. Clarke

Lucinda E Clarke [not her real name] was born in Dublin, but has lived in 8 other countries to date. She wanted to write but was railroaded into teaching. She had a habit of “falling” into other careers, announcing on radio, then scriptwriting for radio and television. She has been a professional writer since 1986 winning over 20 awards for her work, including mayoral speeches, company profiles, drama documentaries, educational programmes for radio and television, adverts, news inserts, court videos, National Geographic, cookery programmes, to name but a few!

She lectured in scriptwriting, had her own column in various publications, and written for national magazines. She was commissioned for two educational books by Heinemann and Macmillan, and book reports for UNESCO and UNICEF.

She graduated into running her own video production company in South Africa.

A selection of books by Lucinda E. Clarke

One of the recent reviews for A Year in the life of Andrea Coe

Tom 5.0 out of 5 stars Keep your enemies closer …  Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 30 May 2020

A superb sequel to ‘A Year in the Life of Leah Brand’. Yes, this is Andrea’s story but a key component is her best friend, Leah. This tale has been well-constructed to develop and highlight every aspect of Andrea’s life, but it also refreshes readers’ memories about how fragile Leah is psychologically and how she interacts with other people.

In monthly increments, we are introduced to a level of promises, lies, deceit and artificial support normally only found in political election campaigns. Apart from the monthly episodes, the chapters are presented in the point of view of the main individual characters. I believe this increases the depth of the intrigue and suspense rather than diluting it.

The characterisation is produced to the author’s usual high standard, so although the supporting characters do not all have personal chapters they are still well-developed and earn their places in this excellent tale of relationships, need and greed.

There may be readers who would like to see this become a trilogy, which, if the author wished, it could be, but if left as Leah’s year and Andrea’s year, the two books are fine entertainment.

Lucinda E. Clarke, Buy :  Amazon US –  And : Amazon UK – Blog:WordPress Lucinda E. Clarke — Follow Lucinda:Goodreads – Twitter: @LucindaEClarke

Meet John L. DeBoer

After graduating from the University of Vermont College of Medicine, John L. DeBoer, M.D., F.A.C.S. completed a surgical residency in the U.S. Army and then spent three years in the Medical Corps as a general surgeon. Thirty years of private practice later, he retired to begin a new career as a writer. Dr. DeBoer is a member of International Thriller Writers and is the author of nine published novels. The father of two grown sons, he lives with his wife in North Carolina.

A selection of books by John L. DeBoer

My Review for Deep Cover May 2nd 2020

As promised in the blurb for the book, this is an action-packed thriller with a plot that is current in its realistic threat to American politics and alleged meddling by foreign powers.

Being fast paced, and with a full cast of characters, some with two or even three names as undercover agents or those with criminal pasts in WITSEC, you need to keep your wits about you. The Russian sleepers are not all dedicated hard liners and have found that their 15 years in the USA, building their cover, forming relationships, and being successful in their professions, are not something they want to give up.

Unlike most popular fiction and television dramas, where the various law enforcement agencies are territorial, it is refreshing to see that the Marshalls Service, FBI and NSA can actually work well together to get things done to thwart the moves by the Russians. On the other side of the operation there is a race to stop sleepers from exposing their handlers so that they can stay in WITSEC in the USA rather than be deported, and that includes assassinations.

Some of the Russian agents have now infiltrated the two main parties in the mid-term elections and exposing them is a double edged sword that could derail international relations. This results in some interesting chess moves by law enforcement to negate bogus politicians from winning votes without upsetting the leadership at home and abroad.

There are several threads to the story that cross paths with each other during the plot and are brought to a satisfactory close at the end of the story, but I am sure that the characters themselves have more to offer in future books, and some would have interesting back stories to share.

I recommend the book to lovers of espionage thrillers, who enjoy complex and clever plots.

John L. DeBoer, Buy: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK –  Follow John: Goodreads – Twitter: @Johnldeboer

Meet Patricia Furstenberg

Patricia Furstenberg is a multi-genre author, poetess and mother. With a medical degree behind her, Patricia is passionate about history, art, dogs and the human mind. “Silent Heroes” is her 13th book and her first contemporary fiction novel. So far Patricia wrote historical fiction, poetry and children’s books. All her books have one common denominator, dogs.

What fuels her is her fascination with words and coffee. She is the author of the bestseller Joyful Trouble and a prolific writer working on her next novel already, a historical fiction. Will it feature a dog as well? Only tme will tell. Patricia lives happily with her husband, children and dogs in sunny South Africa.

A selection of books by Patricia Furstenberg

One of the recent reviews for Silent Heroes

Apr 24, 2020 H.A. Leuschel rated it Five Stars it was amazing

This was a fabulous read. I normally shy away from books that are set in war zones or describe life in the military. However, I also love challenging myself and learning about countries and characters that will teach me how different their lives are to mine. This book is perfect in all aspects!

I admire the author’s beautiful pen, her way of describing Afghanistan, the day to day fear and stress that soldiers have to go through as well as the local population. She offers vivid descriptions of the difficulties in staying alert while also staying human and empathetic towards the communities where the military staff are stationed. The underlying plot that kept the narrative going added to the gripping scenes that flowed off the page.

Another aspect I loved about this book was the friendship between soldiers and their dogs who worked as a team on site. I had no idea just how clever these dogs were, so sensitive and perceptive and their presence seemed to help all of the military staff to feel emotionally stable. The author opened my eyes to a new world that of course I hear about in the news but am never quite able to really understand. I walk away having read a great book and having learned a lot along the way. Throughout the narrative I always felt it was very realistic so have to add that the book was extremely well researched in the details provided about Afghani culture, the political conflict and ensuing devastating recent history. Highly recommended if like me you’d like to know what it’s really like to be stationed as a solider in a war zone.

Patricia Furstenberg, Buy:Amazon US – and: Amazon UK – Blog:  Alluring Creations Goodreads: Goodreads – Twitter: @PatFurstenberg

Thank you for joining me today for this series and I will be sharing another three authors and their work every weekday during June and July. It would be great if you could share. Thanks Sally.

 

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore – Author Updates – #Reviews -#FamilySaga Judith Barrow, #History Mike Biles, #PsychologicalThriller Lucinda E. Clarke

Welcome to the first of the cafe updates this week with recent reviews for authors on the shelves.

The first author is Judith Barrow with a review for her compelling family drama and another book that I can recommend – The Memory.

About the book

Mother and daughter tied together by shame and secrecy, love and hate.

I wait by the bed. I move into her line of vision and it’s as though we’re watching one another, my mother and me; two women – trapped.

Today has been a long time coming. Irene sits at her mother’s side waiting for the right moment, for the point at which she will know she is doing the right thing by Rose.

Rose was Irene’s little sister, an unwanted embarrassment to their mother Lilian but a treasure to Irene. Rose died thirty years ago, when she was eight, and nobody has talked about the circumstances of her death since. But Irene knows what she saw. Over the course of 24 hours their moving and tragic story is revealed – a story of love and duty, betrayal and loss – as Irene rediscovers the past and finds hope for the future.

The new novel from the bestselling author of the Howarth family saga

One of the recent reviews for the book on Goodreads

Jun 06, 2020 Michelle Whitham (curled_up_with_a_good_book) rated it it was amazing

Irene is delighted when she finds out her parents are expecting, and when they bring home a beautiful little girl she falls in love instantly. But she doesn’t understand why her Mum doesn’t feel the same and doesn’t want anything to do with her…… She realises her sister is special, and later finds out that she has Down’s Syndrome. Only strengthening the love she has for, Irene has an unbreakable bond with Rose and will protect her above all else. Until she passes away at the age of 8….and Irene believes there is more to it than she is being told.

Left devastated Irene moves on with her life as best as she can with plenty of ups and downs, and eventually ends up back home caring for her Mum. Having kept a secret since the day Rose died, Irene faces up to what she feels she must do to put things right. Stressed, overwhelmed and tired, the only question is will Irene go ahead with her plans……

The Memory was so moving, it actually had me in tears at one point. Told from Irene’s viewpoint, we experience 24 hours with her as she’s at home caring for her challenging Mum who is suffering with dementia. But at the same time she takes us back through her memories of her childhood and life; when she meets her little sister, the bond they have, her death and the challenges that follow for Irene as an adult.

I was so invested in Irene and honestly felt like I was reading someone’s real life memoirs. Irene loved her sister so much and would have done anything for her. We go through the tragic loss with her and it’s heart breaking. As Irene grows she ends up sacrificing her own desires to care for others, something that constantly seems to happen through her life. When she seems to be able to move on with her life, something else crops up. The poor woman is so selfless, and goes through so much. You can’t help but empathise with her and wish you could give her a massive big hug!

I fell in love with Rose instantly. An adorable little character who’s end I was devastated by. Sam is a real gentleman although I could have given him a bit of a boot a few times! And then we have Irene’s Mum, Lil…….this woman brought out every emotion in me. I was angry with her, disgusted, sad and shocked. She says and does some terrible things, but isn’t always what she seems……And I loved Nanna……

The Memory is a truly emotive and heart wrenching novel covering sisterly bonds, family, secrets, betrayal, loss and ultimate sacrifice. I didn’t want to put it down. Highly recommended by me.

Read the reviews and buy the book : Amazon UK

And:  Amazon US

Also by Judith Barrow

Read all the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US

and: Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Judith: Goodreads

Connect to Judith via her blog: Judith Barrow

The next author with a recent review is Mike Biles for his history of Britain that I can also highly recommend.. A Bit About Britain’s History.

About A Bit about Britain’s History: From a long time ago to quite recently.

Could this short, elegant, volume be the only book on British history you’ll ever need?

A Bit About Britain’s History is for anyone who wants a serious, yet light, introduction to Britain’s amazing story. If you don’t know the basics, or would like a reminder, this book is for you. It is also perfect for those that didn’t enjoy history at school, but who have suddenly realised they’d like to understand it a bit better now.

What did the Romans achieve? How did Christianity arrive? Who are the English and why did they fight the French so often? What is Henry VIII’s greatest legacy? When did democracy start and people get the vote? Why on earth did Britain get involved in WW1?

Organised clearly and chronologically, A Bit About Britain’s History covers every period from a long time ago until quite recently. It begins by briefly mentioning that the place was once inhabited by extremely large lizards, and ends up with a post-war 20th century consumer society. Brief articles explain the essential aspects of Britain’s past, including how the ancestors of its current inhabitants arrived, how they fought each other, formed nations, fell out over religion, acquired a large empire, became gradually more democratic, helped win a couple of world wars and were left wondering what to do next. At the end of the book are detailed timelines for each period, which provide useful reference and make fascinating reading in their own right.

A Bit About Britain’s History might be the only book on British history you’ll ever need; or it might be your stepping stone to more in-depth academic reading

One of the recent reviews for the book

Denise G. McGee 5.0 out of 5 stars A great way to learn more about the history of Britain  Reviewed in the United States on May 22, 2020

I thoroughly enjoyed reading “A Bit About Britain’s History.” While history has always fascinated me, too many non-fiction books about history tend to be exceedingly dry. This book was very informative and entertaining and didn’t put me to sleep. I’m American, and more than a bit of an Anglophile, so this book was right up my alley. I’ve been following Mike’s blog for several years now, and am delighted that he has a published book. I’m very much looking forward to the second installment!

Read the reviews and buy the book : Amazon UK

And on Amazon US: Amazon US

Follow Mike on : Goodreads

Connect to Mike via his blog: Bit About Britain

The final author today is Lucinda E. Clarke with a recent review for her latest release A Year in the Life of Andrea Coe: A Psychological Thriller (In the life of …. Book 2)

About the book

Andrea was Leah’s best friend. A strange attraction between a wild, confident, fun-loving, widow and a quiet, insecure housewife.

But Leah’s gentle and loving nature hide the depths of an underlying iron-hard mental strength. After surviving her vicious husband’s terrifying games and the mental asylum he committed her to, Leah’s only desire now is for a life of peace with her new partner, and her best friend, Andrea. What could possibly go wrong?

Plenty, as it turns out. With her husband now on the run from a mob hitman, and his family each hiding their own secrets, they are prepared to go to any lengths to finish what they started three years ago. Will they succeed this time?

Leah knew the only person she could rely on was Andrea.

This is book two in the series and answers all the questions raised in Book 1: A Year In The Life of Leah Brand.

One of the recent reviews for the book

Tom 5.0 out of 5 stars Keep your enemies closer …  Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 30 May 2020

A superb sequel to ‘A Year in the Life of Leah Brand’. Yes, this is Andrea’s story but a key component is her best friend, Leah. This tale has been well-constructed to develop and highlight every aspect of Andrea’s life, but it also refreshes readers’ memories about how fragile Leah is psychologically and how she interacts with other people.

In monthly increments, we are introduced to a level of promises, lies, deceit and artificial support normally only found in political election campaigns. Apart from the monthly episodes, the chapters are presented in the point of view of the main individual characters. I believe this increases the depth of the intrigue and suspense rather than diluting it.

The characterisation is produced to the author’s usual high standard, so although the supporting characters do not all have personal chapters they are still well-developed and earn their places in this excellent tale of relationships, need and greed.

There may be readers who would like to see this become a trilogy, which, if the author wished, it could be, but if left as Leah’s year and Andrea’s year, the two books are fine entertainment.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US

And: Amazon UK

A selection of other books by Lucinda E.Clarke

Read the reviews and buy the books:  Amazon US

And : Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Lucinda: Goodreads

Connect to Lucinda via her blog: WordPress Lucinda E. Clarke

Thank you for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books under your arm.. thanks Sally.

 

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore – New Book on the Shelves – A Year in the Life of Andrea Coe: A Psychological Thriller (In the life of …. Book 2) by Lucinda E. Clarke

Delighted to add another book to the shelves with the new release of A Year in the Life of Andrea Coe: A Psychological Thriller (In the life of …. Book 2) by Lucinda E. Clarke.

About the book

Andrea was Leah’s best friend. A strange attraction between a wild, confident, fun-loving, widow and a quiet, insecure housewife.

But Leah’s gentle and loving nature hide the depths of an underlying iron-hard mental strength. After surviving her vicious husband’s terrifying games and the mental asylum he committed her to, Leah’s only desire now is for a life of peace with her new partner, and her best friend, Andrea. What could possibly go wrong?

Plenty, as it turns out. With her husband now on the run from a mob hitman, and his family each hiding their own secrets, they are prepared to go to any lengths to finish what they started three years ago. Will they succeed this time?

Leah knew the only person she could rely on was Andrea.

This is book two in the series and answers all the questions raised in Book 1: A Year In The Life of Leah Brand.

One of the early reviews for the book on Goodreads

May 21, 2020 Rebecca rated it Five Stars it was amazing

This story was even more exciting than the first one. It starts out with the knowledge that someone has been murdered and an unknown woman in jail. As Andrea begins to tell her story to the reader, you wonder if she killed Leah … or someone else. Plenty of surprises in store as everything goes against Leah once again … just when she thought her life was on the mend. Will justice prevail in the end and will it all end HEA? Or will the comments about books not being real life crime come true? Get prepared for a psychological thriller that will mess with your mind.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US

And: Amazon UK

A selection of other books by Lucinda E.Clarke

Read the reviews and buy the books:  Amazon US

And : Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Lucinda: Goodreads

About Lucinda E. Clarke

Lucinda E Clarke [not her real name] was born in Dublin, but has lived in 8 other countries to date. She wanted to write but was railroaded into teaching. She had a habit of “falling” into other careers, announcing on radio, then scriptwriting for radio and television. She has been a professional writer since 1986 winning over 20 awards for her work, including mayoral speeches, company profiles, drama documentaries, educational programmes for radio and television, adverts, news inserts, court videos, National Geographic, cookery programmes, to name but a few!

She lectured in scriptwriting, had her own column in various publications, and written for national magazines. She was commissioned for two educational books by Heinemann and Macmillan, and book reports for UNESCO and UNICEF.

She graduated into running her own video production company in South Africa.

Connect to Lucinda via her website and social media.

Blog: Lucinda WordPress
Web page: Lucinda E. Clarke
Twitter: @LucindaEClarke
FB page: Lucinda E. Clarke Author

Thank you for dropping in today and it would be great if you could share the news of Lucinda’s new book as far as possible. Thanks Sally

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore – Author Updates #Reviews -#Thriller Mark Bierman, #PsychologicalThriller Lucinda E. Clarke, #Dystopian Alex Craigie

Welcome to the Friday’s edition of the Cafe and Bookstore Updates with recent reviews for authors on the shelves.

The first author today is Mark Bierman  with a review for his debut novel Vanished.

About the book

Tragedy . . . heartache . . . how much more can Tyler Montgomery and John Webster take? This missions trip, the “healing” one, has only added fresh layers of pain. Construction of an orphanage in Haiti’s northwest . . . yes. But a doomed rescue operation, human traffickers, human anomalies, extreme personal danger . . . risk of death? They hadn’t signed up for those.

Turning their backs on the crisis, however, is unthinkable, it’s just not who they are.

One of the recent reviews for the book

Pete Springer 4.0 out of 5 stars Exciting and Tragic  Reviewed in the United States on April 2, 2020

John and Tyler travel to Haiti from America to volunteer at a Haitian mission. They think they re going to help build an orphanage, but they quickly become embroiled in more sinister matters. A young girl, Chantale, is kidnapped from the local village, and the two Americans try to rescue her. The naive Americans quickly find out that they are in over their heads. Chantale is taken not for ransom, but into the seedy world of human trafficking.

The protagonists travel to a mine on the other side of the country where violence and slavery reign. Faced with the unfamiliarity of language and cultural differences, John and Tyler put their trust in a career thief, Janjak, to navigate through many issues they know nothing about.

Bierman’s fast-paced novel will have you holding on to the edge of your seat. While the subject matter is unpleasant at times, the writing is quite good. I found some of the rescue to be a little farfetched and highly coincidental. The end lacked believability for me. It was an engaging read, dealing with a serious subject.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US

And: Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Mark: Goodreads

50% of the proceeds from Vanished go to an organization that helps victims of human trafficking.

Amazon US Author Page: Amazon US
Amazon UK : Amazon UK

Connect to Mark via his blog: Mark Bierman WordPress

The next review is for Lucinda E.Clarke.  A Year in the Life of Leah Brand: A Psychological Thriller

About the book

Leah’s nightmare began the day the dog died.

A few years earlier a fatal car crash took the lives of Leah’s beloved husband and their two babies, leaving her disabled. Life looked bleak. She was approaching forty, unemployed, broke and desperate.

Then she met Mason. He was charming, charismatic, persuasive, and a successful businessman, well respected in the community. His teenage daughter did nothing to welcome Leah into the family, but life is never perfect.

Then, two years into her second marriage, Leah Brand’s world is turned upside down; inanimate objects in the house move, her clothes are left out for the rubbish collection, pieces of furniture change places, there are unexplained noises and hauntings.

As the disturbances increase, everyone accuses Leah of losing her mind. Soon she begins to doubt herself and she starts to spiral down into a world of insanity. Is she going mad, or is someone out to destroy her? And if so, why?

A gripping, psychological thriller for fans of Mary Higgins Clarke and Louise Jensen.

One of the recent reviews for the book

M Ghosh 4.0 out of 5 stars Suspenseful story, brilliant ending  Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 7 March 2020

Set in suburban England, this psychological thriller has a rather routine beginning with Leah, a vulnerable woman recovering from the after-effects of an accident.

Soon after, the routine goes haywire and Leah goes through some very non-routine situations that make her begin to doubt her own sanity.

I loved Leah and felt myself following her with hope and trepidation. The suspense kept me turning the pages, and the ending made me pause and go ah.

This is a beautifully crafted tale, and needs to find more readers.

.Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK

And: Amazon US

A selection of other books by Lucinda E.Clarke

Read the reviews and buy the books:  Amazon US

And : Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Lucinda: Goodreads

Connect to Lucinda via her blog: WordPress Lucinda E. Clarke

The final author today is Alex Craigie with a recent review for  Acts of Convenience

About the book

Imagine, if you will, a near future where governments adopt policies that suit them rather than the people they were elected to represent.

Imagine a near future where old age and chronic problems are swept away with expedient legislation.

I know; it’s an unlikely scenario.

However, it’s a scenario in which Cassie Lincoln finds herself.

It’s a scenario that compels her to take action.

It’s a scenario that leads to despair and danger.

One of the recent reviews for the book.

David P Western 5.0 out of 5 stars Too close to reality? A future to fear?  Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 9 March 2020

I’ve given this novel 5 stars because the problems faced in this dystopian near-future setting are frighteningly real. As are the proposed solutions of the various governments in the story. Alex portrays how public opinion can be manipulated by those with money and power. Her concerns for the choices facing society in the not too distant future are clearly played out by a varied cast of characters. Alex has a plot that makes you think and ask, ‘What if…?’

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK

And: Amazon US

Also by Alex Craigie

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon UK

And: Amazon US

Read more reviews and follow Alex: Goodreads

Connect to Alex Craigie via: Facebook

Thank you for visiting today and I hope you will be leaving with some books to read.. thanks Sally.