Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore – Meet the Authors – #Thriller Carol Balawyder, #Scifi Sandra J. Jackson,#Fantasy Deborah Jay.

Over the summer I will be updating author’s details in the Cafe and Bookstore and also sharing their bios, books and recent reviews with you in this series…

Meet Carol Balawyder

I hold an undergraduate degree with a major on English Literature and a graduate degree in Criminology. I taught Criminology in Police Technology and Corrections programs in Montreal. My area of expertise was in drug addiction and I worked in a methadone clinic with heroin addicts. I helped set up a writing workshop for women in prison and worked in halfway homes and drug rehab centers.

My short stories have appeared in Room Magazine, The Canadian Anthology of Fiction, Mindful.or, Between the Lines and Carte Blanche. I was awarded an honorary mention for a play submitted to The Canadian Playwright Competition.

I manage a blog where I write about: Women Nobel Prize Winners for Literature, Famous Writers’ Desks, Femmes Fatales, India, Book Reviews and my dog, Bau. Carol Balawyder Blog

A selection of books by Carol Balawyder

A recent review for Warning Signs

D. W. Peach 4.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating psychological thriller  Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2021

This psychological thriller is told from three points of view: a serial killer, the young woman who loves him, and the detective investigating the serial murders of several teenagers.

Eugene Munroe is a creepy guy, and there were times during the read where the real world disappeared and I was completely absorbed in his strange and fascinating thought processes. Angie is overly needy and desperate for love, and Eugene’s attentions have her ignoring the warning signs that something is wrong. Van Ray is the cop on the case who compromises the law in more ways than one.

The plot starts with a lot of tension that kept me glued to the pages. A significant twist at the halfway point changes the nature of the story, shifting it away from imminent danger into the psychology of the characters. The pace slows slightly as the book works toward a conclusion, but it wraps up the various threads nicely. The writing seemed well researched, particularly related to the serial killer.

I encountered a problem with formatting on my kindle (it may just be my kindle). There were no breaks or indents distinguishing paragraphs. This made the read more difficult for me, but otherwise, I recommend it to fans of thrillers, crime novels, and psychological dramas.

Read reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Read more reviews : Goodreads – Website – Carol Balawyder – LinkedIn: Carol Balawyder

Meet Sandra J. Jackson

A graduate of a 3-year Graphic Design program, Sandra J. Jackson has always been creative, from drawing and painting to telling stories to her children when they were young. Her wild imagination lends itself to new and exciting ideas.

Sandra’s debut novel, Promised Soul, was originally released in 2015 by her former publisher. A short story, Not Worth Saving, was published in New Zenith Magazine’s 2016 fall issue. She also has had several sports articles published in a local newspaper. She holds a professional membership with the Canadian Author Association and is a member of Writers’ Ink. Sandra’s second novel, Playing in the Rain – Book 1 of the Escape Series, released in September 2017 also by the same former publisher. Followed by Catching Butterflies and Dancing in the Wind.

Sandra lives with her family in a rural setting in Eastern, Ontario.

Books Sandra J. Jackson

One of the recent reviews for Dancing in the Wind

Kindle Customer5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome  Reviewed in the United States on April 14, 2021

I just love this series so much. It hasn’t lost any steam. This part was intense all the way the through. There are new issues as the survivors and April try to have some semblance of life. Some remember others don’t and there is a new person who is horrifying. A perfect replacement for Cecil to add the holy wow run factor to the story. I loved the development of the secondary characters as the world grows richer and the gifts were really neat. I like the way April’s gift is so central to everything. She really is my favorite at this point.

The tension never lets up, be it from the threat of virus mutations, the rush for a vaccine or cure, and the new threats from outside and perhaps inside sources. 😉

The way things end was totally satisfying but also leaves room and makes me hopeful there will be more. I would really love to visit this world again. Great series start to finish.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And : Amazon UK – Follow Sandra : Goodreads – blog: Sandra Jackson WordPress – Twitter: @sjjacksonauthor

Meet Deborah Jay

Deborah Jay writes Epic Fantasy series and Urban Fantasy featuring complex, quirky characters and multi-layered plots – just what she likes to read.

Fortunate to live not far from Loch Ness in the majestic, mystery-filled Scottish Highlands with her partner and a pack of rescue dogs, she can often be found lurking in secluded glens and forests, researching locations for her books.

Her action adventure fantasy series, The Five Kingdoms, opens with THE PRINCE’S MAN, an Amazon Top 100 Hot New Release, winner of a UK Arts Council award, and an International Bestseller.

Book #2, THE PRINCE’S SON and book #3, THE PRINCE’S PROTEGE are also available, with book #4, THE PRINCE’S HEIR due in 2021

Books by Deborah Jay

One of the recent reviews for The Prince’s Man

Mae Clair 5.0 out of 5 stars An enthralling epic fantasy novel  Reviewed in the United States on January 2, 2021

One of the best fantasy novels I have read in ages, The Prince’s Man combines court intrigue, nefarious plots, and dazzling realms. Rustam (Rusty) Chalice is a debonair dance master who lives a double life as a spy in the service of his prince, while also frequenting the beds of highborn ladies.

His life takes a turn when he is forced to team with Dart, the court’s royal assassin—a woman—with the goal of transporting a sickly elf across hostile, mountainous territory. Through the arduous journey, all three characters undergo brutal transformations and evolve as they are tested time and again, forced to rely on one another. At the same time, threats to the throne involve a traitorous noble, an illegitimate heir, and a diabolical torturer. There are layers upon layers of plot, all woven neatly together for a satisfying conclusion in this first book of what promises to be a stellar trilogy.

I was smitten with all three of the lead characters, especially Rustam who undergoes the most compelling transformation of all. You can’t read this book and not be caught up in the lives of Jay’s rakish spy, Risada, Elwaes and so many others. Even the secondary characters are fleshed out and vibrantly written. We meet so many along the journey, yet each leaves a distinctive mark.

The writing is exquisite, layered with beautifully detailed descriptions of enthralling realms, fantastical creatures, and breathless adventure. Every bit as riveting are the cloak-and-dagger machinations of several royal houses and the cruel manipulations of power-hungry men who seek the throne. From the moment I opened the first pages, I was sucked into the author’s expertly crafted world of intrigue and danger. A truly engaging story. Although book one delivers a wrap to the story as presented, I look forward to continuing for the full scope in books two and three. Highly recommended!

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And:Amazon UK – follow Deborah : Goodreads – website: Deborah Jay – Twitter: @DeborahJay2

 

Thank you for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some book.. thanks Sally.

 

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore Author Updates #Reviews – #Poetry M.J. Mallon, #Thriller Alex Craigie, #Thriller Carol Balawyder

Welcome to the Wednesday edition of the Cafe and Bookstore with recent reviews for authors on the shelves.

The first book with a review is the recently released collection Lockdown Innit: Poems About Absurdity by M.J. Mallon

About the collection

Lockdown Innit is a poetry collection of eighteen poems about life’s absurdities and frustrations during lockdown. Wherever you live in this world, this is for you. Expect humour, a dollop of banter and ridiculous rants here and there. Amongst other delights, witness the strange antics of a swan posing by a bin and two statuesque horses appearing like arc deco pieces in a field. Check out the violin player on a tightrope, or the cheeky unmentionables wafting in the lockdown breeze!

A recent review for the collection

SVG 4.0 out of 5 stars A thoughtful collection of poems  Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 February 2021

Author Marjorie Mallon’s keen sense of observation came to play in the way the poems were penned. Different emotions like fear, anger, longing, desire, humor were evoked while reading them.

The words also showed how people behaved during these tough times. It is the truth that some have still not learned after losing so many lives across the world. Many in the book were hard-hitting, some were humorous, and the best ones were, where the spoke of her love for her daughters through her words. Hope sailed through in them.

Then the author sneaked in a wispy one longing to be like the cat, dreaming peacefully of normal times. A perfect way to end the book.  

Head over to buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

Also by M.J. Mallon

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Website:M.J. Mallon – Goodreads: Goodreads – Twitter: @Marjorie_Mallon

The next author is Alex Craigie with a review for Someone Close to Home

About the book

Talented pianist Megan Youngblood has it all – fame, fortune and Gideon.

But Gideon isn’t good enough for Megan’s ambitious, manipulative mother, whose meddling has devastating repercussions for Megan and for those close to her.

Now, trapped inside her own body, she is unable to communicate her needs or fears as she faces institutional neglect in an inadequate care home.

And she faces Annie. Sadistic Annie who has reason to hate her. Damaged Annie who shouldn’t work with vulnerable people.

Just how far will Annie go?

One of the recent reviews for the book

Books R Best 5.0 out of 5 stars JUST WOW!  Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 28 February 2021

This is a book I will remember for a long time to come. It resonated with me, and while it is heart breaking, it also had some beautiful moments. Not an easy subject but one the author handled so well. I shall be checking out her other books for sure.  

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 – Follow Alex: Goodreads – Alex Craigie : Facebook

The final review today is for Carol Balawyder for a book for those who enjoy thrillers, Warning Signs

About the book

Eugene’s research into his criminal mind is not about the why, but how to prevent his horrific crimes. Angie, a young woman starving for passion sees Eugene as her saviour from a lonely life of caring for her heroin addicted mother. How far is she willing to go in order to save her relationship with Eugene and his promise for a future together?

Detective Van Ray is out on a vindictive mission as he attempts to solve the murders of young girls in Youth Protection.

Their lives collide in a mixture of mistrust, obsession and ignoring the warning signs. A psychological thriller about human frailty and loneliness.

One of the recent reviews for the book

D. W. Peach 4.0 out of 5 stars Fascinating psychological thriller

Reviewed in the United States on February 17, 2021

This psychological thriller is told from three points of view: a serial killer, the young woman who loves him, and the detective investigating the serial murders of several teenagers.

Eugene Munroe is a creepy guy, and there were times during the read where the real world disappeared and I was completely absorbed in his strange and fascinating thought processes. Angie is overly needy and desperate for love, and Eugene’s attentions have her ignoring the warning signs that something is wrong. Van Ray is the cop on the case who compromises the law in more ways than one.

The plot starts with a lot of tension that kept me glued to the pages. A significant twist at the halfway point changes the nature of the story, shifting it away from imminent danger into the psychology of the characters. The pace slows slightly as the book works toward a conclusion, but it wraps up the various threads nicely. The writing seemed well researched, particularly related to the serial killer.

I encountered a problem with formatting on my kindle (it may just be my kindle). There were no breaks or indents distinguishing paragraphs. This made the read more difficult for me, but otherwise, I recommend it to fans of thrillers, crime novels, and psychological dramas.  

Read the reviews and buy the book : Amazon US and: Amazon UK

A selection of books by Carol Balawyder

Read reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Read more reviews : Goodreads – Website – Carol Balawyder – LinkedIn: Carol Balawyder

 

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

 

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore – Author Updates #Reviews – #Thriller Carol Balawyder, #Thriller Mark Bierman, #Romance Linda Bradley

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

The first review today is for Carol Balawyder for her thriller Warning Signs

About the book

Eugene’s research into his criminal mind is not about the why, but how to prevent his horrific crimes. Angie, a young woman starving for passion sees Eugene as her saviour from a lonely life of caring for her heroin addicted mother. How far is she willing to go in order to save her relationship with Eugene and his promise for a future together?

Detective Van Ray is out on a vindictive mission as he attempts to solve the murders of young girls in Youth Protection.

Their lives collide in a mixture of mistrust, obsession and ignoring the warning signs. A psychological thriller about human frailty and loneliness.

One of the recent reviews for the book

Anneli 5.0 out of 5 stars Drawn In  Reviewed in the United States on October 6, 2020

Horror and gruesome killing upset me and I don’t like to read about these details. But author, Carol Balawyder handles the murder scenes in her novel about a serial killer so deftly that I just wanted to keep turning pages – never having the urge to hide my eyes – only wanting to know more.

Once I was hooked (on the first page), she introduced the characters gradually, allowing me to get to know them while keeping me on my toes with dilemmas they each struggled with. Ms. Balawyder expertly slipped in details that would be needed later to make the culmination of the plot flow easily. Nothing happens that seems contrived because the groundwork was laid earlier in the book.

Each of the characters had major flaws but they also had redeeming traits. Even Eugene, the serial killer, was not all bad. Imagine empathizing with a serial killer!

The tension regarding the murderer escalates, and we expect this, but when he befriends Angie, their internal conflicts come into play as well. We already understand why Angie would fall for someone like Eugene, because, by now, we know her personality. But will Eugene hurt Angie? What will Angie do once she starts to suspect that Eugene may be the killer?

What about Darren, the policeman who finds Angie attractive? Will his feelings toward her interfere with his murder investigation?

I was impressed by the way this novel’s plot flowed so smoothly, pulling me in as the characters I came to know so well became entangled in it.

After being drawn into the story on page one, I didn’t want to put the book down until I read, “THE END,” and even then I was thinking about it after I closed the book.

Read the reviews and buy the book : Amazon US  and: Amazon UK

A selection of books by Carol Balawyder

Read reviews and buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK –  Read more reviews : Goodreads – Website – Carol Balawyder – LinkedIn: Carol Balawyder

The next author today is Mark Bierman  with a review for his 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

Wanda Fischer 4.0 out of 5 stars Riveting and Heartbreaking  Reviewed in the United States on October 2, 2020

Remember when Haiti suffered from a devastating earthquake in 2010? The country still hasn’t recovered from that tragedy. This novel begins by setting the scene for just how horrific the earthquake was, by describing the abject poverty of this country, in the form of the terrible conditions within a Haitian prison. The earthquake happens and some of the prisoners escape–into a country of chaos and deprivation, potentially worse than the prison they had lived in.

Enter two Americans, who decide to go on a missionary trip to Haiti with the aim of helping to build an orphanage. Tyler is John’s son-in-law, and they’re both recovering from the untimely death of Tyler’s wife (John’s daughter) from pancreatic cancer at a very young age. Upon arriving in Port-au-Prince, they meet Steve, the head of the mission, but they don’t spend much time there. Instead, they discover that the young daughter of one of the mission’s employees has been kidnapped and sold into child slavery by a trafficking ring. Then Tyler and John decide it should be their job to find the girl, no matter what it takes.

Although John studied Creole prior to their trip, he soon discovers that he only knows how to order a meal or ask for simple directions. The language barrier proves difficult in many ways; they must get help from the locals in order to get any clues where the traffickers have taken the girl.

John and Tyler embark on an ever-changing, ever-dangerous, emotionally and physically challenging adventure that takes them through Haiti to the Dominican Republic. They’re shaken at every turn by the differences in culture and the language barriers, as well as the pure evil they encounter throughout the novel.

This novel is eye-opening about the cruel world of human trafficking, whether in the Caribbean or anywhere in the world. The intense, sadistic power over the children is unimaginable; these children are slaves and considered disposable. They’re beaten, sexually abused, tortured and minimally fed. The author provides heartbreaking descriptions of inhumane treatment, and, although he assures readers in his afterword that the book is “purely a work of fiction,” what he includes in this novel is certainly true to what happens to children who have become slaves. Some are sold by their parents because they can’t afford to keep them, while some are snatched off the streets. This author’s characters capture the essence of this worldwide tragedy.

I recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read an exciting, unpredictable book. However, be prepared to encounter situations involving children that may be uncomfortable and eye-opening. It’s not for the faint-of-heart.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

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

Mark Bierman buy: Amazon US – And : Amazon UK – Follow Mark: Goodreads – Blog: Mark Bierman WordPress – Twitter: @mbiermanauthor

I thought that I would catch up with a free offer that Linda Bradley ran in early September for – Maggie’s Way (Montana Bound Series book 1). Judging by the number of new reviews and ratings on Goodreads it did very well.

About the book

Middle-aged, Maggie Abernathy just wants to recuperate from cancer during the solitude of summer vacation after a tiresome year of teaching second grade. Maggie’s plans are foiled when precocious seven-year-old Chloe McIntyre moves in next door with her dad, John. Maggie’s life changes in a way she could never imagine when the pesky new neighbors steal her heart. With Maggie’s grown son away, her ex-husband in the shadows, her meddling mother’s unannounced visits, and Chloe McIntyre on her heels, somehow Maggie’s empty house becomes home again.

A recent review for the book on Goodreads

Sep 02, 2020 Sylvia Joseph rated it Four stars really liked it

A Test Of Love

A sweet novel of a home spun teacher, faced with the lost of a much loved husband, a 7 year old bright child who could make you laugh and also cry, and a very scary illiness that we all could be struck with and a strong will of being capable to cope with getting on with life of a new neighbor and a sneaky Mom, a Purple cat and a motorcycle that just gets started up but not taken out of the garage, this is a good story of strong wills and trust of many, makes for good clean reading and from a teachers side of reading problems. I recommend this book to all ages.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US And: Amazon UK

Also by Linda Bradley

Linda Bradley, Buy: Amazon US –  And : Amazon UK – Follow Linda :Goodreads – website: Linda Bradley Author – Twitter: @LBradleyAuthor

 

Thanks for dropping in today and I hope you will be leaving with some books… thanks Sally.

 

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore – Meet the Authors – #Thriller Carol Balawyder, #Flashfiction Sarah Brentyn, #SciFi Richard Dee

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 Carol Balawyder

Carol was born in Quebec but now lives in Montreal. After studying Early Childhood Education and spending time amongst the mayhem that is called ‘Kindergarten’, she then went on to obtain a B.A. in Education so that she could teach in High Schools. After the often challenging task of introducing poetry to teenagers Carol moved on to teaching English as a second language.

Fast forward through a trip in her early 20s (involved working passage on a Norwegian cargo ship) to Rotterdam and then to the British Library Museum to read the heavily guarded original Lewis Carroll manuscript of Alice in Wonderland. Then on to Concordia University in Montreal to study Applied Linguistics to M.A level and the publication of ESL books Open For Business and Windows on Sci-Tech under the name of Carol Ann Foumier.

Then came the desire to pen crime novels, and aware that it is expected that these be accurate and factual, Carol obtained a M.Sc. in Criminology. However writing crime stories was put on the back burner, as Carol put her degree to good use, teaching Police Technology and Corrections for 18 years in a college in Montreal. (We all know where to go when we have a crime story line that is not panning out!)

For some people the connection between crime and dating is all too apparent particularly when getting back on the dating scene after a divorce. After a long term relationship the prospect can be daunting and fraught with pitfalls, humour if you can find it and perhaps the need to kiss a lot of frogs.

Books by Carol Balawyder

A recent review for Warning Signs

Ellie Marrandette 5.0 out of 5 stars An incredibly well-written novel into the world of evil  Reviewed in the United States on March 31, 2020

This intelligent, well-written psychological thriller will remain in the reader’s mind long after finishing it, Carol Balawyder’s background in criminology is clearly evident in the detailed way she delves into the complex brain of the mentally insane. The author’s ability to create sympathy for a despicable protagonist reminded me of the novel, “House of Sand and Fog.” The story beautifully unfolds in such soft steps that the reader cares about all the characters involved, while rooting for ultimate justice to be done. This novel will not disappoint.

Carol Balayder buy the books: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK –  Read more reviews : Goodreads – Website – Carol Balawyder – LinkedIn: Carol Balawyder

Meet Sarah Brentyn

Sarah Brentyn is an introvert who believes anything can be made better with soy sauce and wasabi.

She loves words and has been writing stories since she was nine years old. She talks to trees and apologizes to inanimate objects when she bumps into them.

When she’s not writing, you can find her strolling through cemeteries or searching for fairies.

She hopes to build a vacation home in Narnia someday. In the meantime, she lives with her family and a rainbow-colored, wooden cat who is secretly a Guardian.

A recent review for On the Edge of a Raindrop

Harmony Kent 5.0 out of 5 stars Finished in a delightful flash  Reviewed in the United States on April 15, 2020

Another brilliant book of flash and micro fiction from author Sarah Brentyn. This is the second book by this writer that I’ve read, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. The only problem is that I finished it in a flash.

Here are a few lines that stood out for me … although so many others did too …

Her memory lane was pot holes and busted chunks of asphalt.
Lightning lit the room then plunged me into darkness. I was petrified. Not of the storm, but of the thing I’d seen next to my bed.
When the skies were beautiful watercolour paintings of our bruises.

In just a few words, the author evokes so many different emotions and moods. Brilliantly done. On the Edge of a Raindrop gets a resounding five stars from me.

Sarah Brentyn, Buy: Amazon US – And on: Amazon UK – Follow Sarah: Goodreads – Sarah: Blog – Twitter: @SarahBrentyn

Meet Richard Dee

Richard Dee is a native of Brixham in Devon, England He left Devon when he was in his teens and settled in Kent. Leaving school at 16 he briefly worked in a supermarket, then went to sea and travelled the world in the Merchant Navy, qualifying as a Master Mariner in 1986.

Coming ashore to be with his growing family, he used his sea-going knowledge in several jobs, including Marine Insurance Surveyor and Dockmaster at Tilbury, before becoming a Port Control Officer in Sheerness and then at the Thames Barrier in Woolwich.

In 1994 he was head-hunted and offered a job as a Thames Estuary Pilot. In 1999 he transferred to the Thames River Pilots, where he regularly took vessels of all sizes through the Thames Barrier and upriver as far as HMS Belfast and through Tower Bridge. In all, he piloted over 3,500 vessels in a 22-year career with the Port of London Authority.

Richard is married with three adult children and two grandchildren.

His first science-fiction novel Freefall was published in 2013, followed by Ribbonworld in 2015. September 2016 saw the publication of his Steampunk adventure The Rocks of Aserol and of Flash Fiction, a collection of Short Stories. Myra, the prequel to Freefall was published in 2017, along with Andorra Pett and the Oort Cloud Café, a murder mystery set in space and the start of a series featuring Andorra Pett, an amateur detective. He contributed a story to the 1066 Turned Upside Down collection and is currently working on prequels, sequels, and new projects.

Please go to Amazon or Richard’s website to view all his books.

One of the recent reviews for Survive

Norats Inthecorn 5.0 out of 5 stars Sci-Fi Fans Will Love This  Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2020

Imaginative futuristic story about space exploration gone wrong, interwoven with the survivors’ testimony on a television show about their harrowing ordeal after crash-landing on a strange planet rife with deadly creatures and amazing discoveries. Author Richard Dee has either done tremendous research into the technicalities of everything related to space exploration, etc., or he’s a dang genius. His writing is superb, his characterizations distinct, and his imagination – well – out of this world.

“Survive. The Tale of Ballantyne Alysom” is the first in a series. This series will appeal to fans of Science Fiction as well as those who like a good study in narcissism, for the main character, Ballantyne, is narcissism on steroids. Add to that the twists and turns, unexpected revelations, and underlying theme of corporate greed exploiting the expendable, and you’ve got a story that keeps you doing the, “just one more chapter,” thing. This is another one on my Recommendation List. Five stars.

Richard Dee, buy: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – Website: Richard Dee’s Scifi – Goodreads: Richard Dee at Goodreads – Twitter: @RichardDockett1

Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore – Author Updates – #Reviews – #Scifi Richard Dee, #Romance Ritu Bhathal, #Thriller Carol Balawyder

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

The first author with a review to share is Richard Dee for Survive: The Tale of Ballantyne Alysom

About the book

If your Captain won’t keep you safe, who will?

An interplanetary surveying expedition ends in disaster. The survivors are stranded; on a beautiful but savage planet.

Making it home will be hard enough, without having to fight each other. Can the truth survive one man’s desire to make a name for himself?

Ballantyne Alysom is the Galaxy’s most famous explorer.

Davis Jansen is the cameraman he takes to record his latest mission. Alysom is giving nothing away, except that it’s something that’s never been seen before.

When things go wrong, they are marooned on a savage and uncharted planet. The survivors need a leader they can rely on. Jansen watches and records it all as Alysom’s true
character is revealed. He’s not the genial and fearless explorer that everyone sees.

The Far Explorer is a ship riddled with infighting and jealousy, Alysom is controlling and arrogant, nothing like the man that his reputation suggests. Jansen’s efforts to expose
the truth carry just as much risk as surviving on the planet did.

One of the recent reviews for the book

Norats Inthecorn 5.0 out of 5 stars Sci-Fi Fans Will Love This  Reviewed in the United States on May 2, 2020

Imaginative futuristic story about space exploration gone wrong, interwoven with the survivors’ testimony on a television show about their harrowing ordeal after crash-landing on a strange planet rife with deadly creatures and amazing discoveries. Author Richard Dee has either done tremendous research into the technicalities of everything related to space exploration, etc., or he’s a dang genius. His writing is superb, his characterizations distinct, and his imagination – well – out of this world.

“Survive. The Tale of Ballantyne Alysom” is the first in a series. This series will appeal to fans of Science Fiction as well as those who like a good study in narcissism, for the main character, Ballantyne, is narcissism on steroids. Add to that the twists and turns, unexpected revelations, and underlying theme of corporate greed exploiting the expendable, and you’ve got a story that keeps you doing the, “just one more chapter,” thing. This is another one on my Recommendation List. Five stars.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK

And: Amazon US

A selection of other books by Richard Dee

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US

And: Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Richard: Goodreads

Connect to Richard via his website: Richard Dee’s Scifi

And the next author today is Ritu Bhathal for her romance Marriage Unarranged.

About the book

It all started ended with that box…

Aashi’s life was all set. Or so she thought.

Like in the Bollywood films, Ravi would woo her, charm her family and they’d get married and live happily ever after.

But then Aashi found the empty condom box…

Putting her ex-fiancé and her innocence behind her, Aashi embarks upon an enlightening journey, to another country, where vibrant memories are created, and unforgettable friendships forged.

Old images erased, new beginnings to explore.

And how can she forget the handsome stranger she meets? A stranger who’s hiding something…

One of the recent reviews for the book

Lora S. 5.0 out of 5 stars A great book to read during a quarantine  Reviewed in the United States on May 4, 2020

This is a great book to read while you are shut up at home during a quarantine. It offers a look inside the lives of a bubbly group of young people, and even gives you the chance to visit India!

Aashi is living in London, but her family is from India. At the beginning of the story, she is engaged to Ravi, also an Indian living in London. But Ravi doesn’t appear to be as committed to the relationship as Aashi. When she discovers he is seeing somebody else, she freaks out and breaks off the engagement.

Her parents are somewhat embarrassed, but they are devastated for her, knowing that she is a good girl and hasn’t done anything wrong. Eventually, they decide that, instead of canceling the trip that Aashi and her mother were planning to make to India to shop for wedding necessities, they will allow Aashi and her best friend, Kiran to make the trip instead – sending Aashi’s two brothers along to chaperone the girls.

They get to do a lot of sight-seeing and, especially, shopping while there. Aashi’s oldest brother visits the shop where they had intended to have her wedding dress made. Of course, that isn’t needed anymore, but Sunny negotiates a deal with the designer to sell his fashions in the family’s shop back in London. This also leads to some interesting outings for the group while they are in Delhi.

One special trip they make is to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, the head temple of the Sikh religion, to celebrate Vaisakhi, the day they celebrate the birth of their religion.

On the plane on the way over, they meet Arjun, a cute boy about their age. He hits it off with all of them right away and travels with them for most of the time they are there. Aashi sort of likes him, but he seems to already have a girlfriend…

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK

And: Amazon US

Also by Ritu Bhathal

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon UK

and : Amazon US

Read more reviews and follow Ritu: Goodreads

Connect to Ritu via her blog: But I smile anyway

And the final author today is Carol Balawyder  – with a review for her psychological thriller – Warning Signs: A novel about Obsession.

About the book

Eugene’s research into his criminal mind is not about the why, but how to prevent his horrific crimes. Angie, a young woman starving for passion sees Eugene as her saviour from a lonely life of caring for her heroin addicted mother. How far is she willing to go in order to save her relationship with Eugene and his promise for a future together?

Detective Van Ray is out on a vindictive mission as he attempts to solve the murders of young girls in Youth Protection.

Their lives collide in a mixture of mistrust, obsession and ignoring the warning signs. A psychological thriller about human frailty and loneliness.

A recent review for the book

Ellie Marrandette 5.0 out of 5 stars An incredibly well-written novel into the world of evil  Reviewed in the United States on March 31, 2020

This intelligent, well-written psychological thriller will remain in the reader’s mind long after finishing it, Carol Balawyder’s background in criminology is clearly evident in the detailed way she delves into the complex brain of the mentally insane. The author’s ability to create sympathy for a despicable protagonist reminded me of the novel, “House of Sand and Fog.” The story beautifully unfolds in such soft steps that the reader cares about all the characters involved, while rooting for ultimate justice to be done. This novel will not disappoint.

Read the reviews and buy the book : Amazon US

and: Amazon UK

A selection of other books by Carol Balawyder

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US

And on: Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Carol on: Goodreads

Connect to Carol via her blog- Carol Balawyder

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 – Author Update #Reviews – #Paranormal S.A. Harris, #Thriller Carol Balawyder, #Romance #Mystery Jacquie Biggar

Welcome to the first author update for the authors in the Cafe and Bookstore with recent reviews.

Time to catch up with Sally Harris who has received a great many five star reviews for her debut novel Haverscroft.

About the Book

Kate Keeling leaves all she knows and moves to Haverscroft House in an attempt to salvage her marriage. Little does she realise, Haverscroft’s dark secrets will drive her to question her sanity, her husband and fatally engulf her family unless she can stop the past repeating itself. Can Kate keep her children safe and escape Haverscroft in time, even if it will end her marriage?

Haverscroft is a gripping and chilling dark tale, a modern ghost story that will keep you turning its pages late into the night.

One of the recent reviews for the book on Goodreads

Nov 22, 2019 Penny rated it it was amazing five stars

I was totally immersed in Haverscroft from the get-go, a dark and super atmospheric read, made all the better by the dark nights now setting in and the ghostly chill it can leave.

Mark Keeling has moved his wife to Haverscroft House, from London with their twins Tom & Sophie.

Nothing unusual there, a new family moving to the country, away from the stress of London life. Kates had a hard time recently and though Mark thought he was doing the right thing, he’s hardly ever there, he still working in London and leaving Kate to sort everything at Haverscroft, the kids, new school a new puppy, it’s tiring her out and she’s worried she’ll relapse. But it’s not just the move that’s unsettled Kate and the twins, its the house. That was a shadow wasnt it? Did you hear those voices, and there’s that tapping again.

Part of the deal to purchase the house was that the new owners, must-visit Mrs. Havers, she’s too old now to stay there and has no heirs. Will she tell Kate the truth? What is she hiding? She’s not the only one with secrets – Kate, Mark and his Mother are all keeping their own too.

Mark doesn’t believe there’s anything wrong with the house, and gets annoyed with Kate’s phone calls and cries for help – but will he change his mind now he knows the true history of the house and its previous tenants?

I think S.A Harris really manages to set the tone early on and leave the reader with no doubt that there is something in the house. Haverscoft is the perfect spooky read for Halloween, well any time – if you love a ghost story, this needs to come under your radar, and soon.   Haverscroft – Gripping, Atmospheric and chilling.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK

and on: Amazon US

Follow S.A. Harris on: Goodreads

Connect to Sally via her website:Sally Harris

The next author is Carol Balawyder for her latest release, the thriller Warning Signs: A Novel about Obsession.

About the book

Eugene’s research into his criminal mind is not about the why, but how to prevent his horrific crimes. Angie, a young woman starving for passion sees Eugene as her saviour from a lonely life of caring for her heroin addicted mother. How far is she willing to go in order to save her relationship with Eugene and his promise for a future together?

Detective Van Ray is out on a vindictive mission as he attempts to solve the murders of young girls in Youth Protection.

Their lives collide in a mixture of mistrust, obsession and ignoring the warning signs. A psychological thriller about human frailty and loneliness.

One of the recent reviews for the book

Jan 16, 2020 D.G. Kaye rated it Five Stars

I’m a fan of this author’s women’s fiction and because of her expertise in a background of criminology, I was eager to read her first psychological thriller, and it did not disappoint.

Detective Darren Van Ray is upset that’s he’s been taken off the big necktie serial killer’s case for arresting the wrong man and allowing the killer to continue his spree. But thanks to his good friendship with lead detective, Alice Virioli, he keeps abreast of the case that he’s put so much time into and finds he can’t distance himself from the case.

Angie suffers a low self-esteem and lives with her drug-addicted mother. Eugene is the serial killer who is murdering young girls newly released from a Youth Center Group, using the logic that those girl’s lives are pretty much ended for disaster with a life of debauchery, so he thinks he is sparing them a miserable life. At the same time, he is doing research about the psychology of killers to try and learn why he has these urges to kill. He gets closer to Detective Van Ray by offering him his take from research on serial killers, thinking if he befriends him he’ll take the scent of himself. But the detective smells a rat. And once again the detective finds he can’t steer away from this case.

Insecure Angie meets Eugene (a.k.a. Niko – his real name) and they fall in love. Angie finally feeling worthy of herself and Niko wanting someone all for himself – until later in the book when Angie discovers who Eugene really is! As the case continues, we learn more about Eugene and where his killing instinct comes from. Things heat up when Detective Van Ray becomes curiously interested in Angie and her connection to Eugene after Eugene is mysteriously killed but a photo of Angie is found in his apartment.

This book gives us an interesting look into a serial killer’s mind, expertly written through this author’s background studies in police and criminology studies. It was an interesting read, and happy to say that as one who doesn’t appreciate reading blood and gore, the book is focused on the psychological aspect of the hunt and the kill more than focusing on the gory remains. An excellent thriller!

Buy the book: Amazon US

and : Amazon UK

A selection of other books by Carol Balawyder

Read the reviews and buy the books: Amazon US

And on: Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Carol on: Goodreads

Connect to Carol on her blog: Carol Balawyder

And the final author today is USA Today Bestselling Romance author Jacquie Biggar with a recent review for her latest book published on 14th January – The Sister Pact: Home is Where the Heart Is.

About the book

Two sisters lose sight of what’s most important- family bonds.

Holly Tremaine is living on borrowed time. A life-threatening illness ends her promising musical career and sends her home in the hope of making amends for the past.

Levi Anderson is on the fast track to a successful year within his profession- the last thing he has time for is his twin brother’s shenanigans. But when it includes the one woman Levi hasn’t been able to forget, his conscience won’t let him avoid the temptation to see her again.

Can remorse heal all wounds? Or will past betrayals continue to ruin family ties, one thread at a time?

A delightful mixture of women’s fiction, chick-lit, romance and mystery, The Sister Pact has something for every reader.

One of the early reviews for the book

Kirchersmiles 5.0 out of 5 stars Awesome!! Must Read!!   January 17, 2020

Not sure why but this is my first book by this author and I loved it. I love a break sometimes from the heavy drama and the too hot scenes, not that I don’t love those too but this story was refreshing while still being very emotional, and I enjoyed every single word. I love this author’s style of writing, very smooth and easy to read.

I have 4 daughters, and although I’ve never dealt with this sort of conflict described in this story I’ve seen many others play out over the years and this book felt so real. The conversations felt real, the feelings were described in a way that made me feel them. I seem to gravitate toward the deep family stories lately and the emotions that go with them, this was an amazingly written book and as I said above, not sure why this is my first read by this author, but I can guarantee I have already looked at what else is available and my tbr has grown and I’ll be watching for any and everything from this point on.

Thank you Miss Biggar for keeping it real and allowing me to connect with the characters in this book!

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US

And: Amazon UK

A selection of of other books by Jacquie Biggar

Read all the reviews and buy the books : Amazon US

And: Amazon UK

Read more reviews and follow Jacquie : Goodreads

Connect to Jacquie via her website: Jacquie Biggar

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

If you are looking for a book to read there are over 150 authors in the Cafe and Bookstore with approximately 500 books on display with recent reviews and buy links on Amazon: Smorgasbord Cafe and Bookstore FREE Author Promotion