The death of Nobel laureate Toni Morrison in the summer of 2019 loosed a flood of words upon the world. Elegies from artists and readers streamed down social media feeds; obituaries from critics and friends pooled in the usual venues. The New Yorker—which published her fiction exactly once in her lifetime—collected crystalline musings from Hilton […]

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2023/08/18/morrison-hall-toni-morrison-princeton/

The Murderer’s Son by Joy Ellis is the first audiobook in the Jackman & Evans investigations. However, Audible recommended I start with Their Lost Daughters, which I did. Narrated by Richard Armitage, Ellis delivered a gritty murder-mystery with plenty of twists.

The Murderer’s Son
by Joy Ellis
Series: Jackman & Evans #1
Narrator: Richard Armitage
Length: 9 hours and 30 minutes
Genres: Mystery
Source: Audible Plus
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:

“What if your mother was a serial killer?”

A BLOODY KILLER SEEMS TO HAVE RETURNED TO THE LINCOLNSHIRE FENS

A gripping standalone crime thriller by the best-selling author of the Nikki Galena series.

Twenty years ago: a farmer and his wife are cut to pieces by a ruthless serial killer.

Now: a woman is viciously stabbed to death in the upmarket kitchen of her beautiful house on the edge of the marshes.

Then a man called Daniel Kinder walks into Saltern police station and confesses to the murder.

But DI Rowan Jackman and DS Marie Evans of the Fenland Constabulary soon discover that there is a lot more to Daniel than meets the eye. He has no memory of the first five years of his life and is obsessed with who his real mother is.

With no evidence to hold him, Jackman and Evans are forced to let him go, and in a matter of days the lonely Lincolnshire Fens become the stage for more killings and Daniel has disappeared.

In a breathtaking finale, the truth about Daniel’s mother comes to light and DI Jackman and DS Evans race against time to stop more lives being destroyed.

The detectives: DS Marie Evans lost her husband in a motorbike accident and has personal connections to the case. DI Rowan Jackman leads the investigation. He is extremely smart and has a knack for bringing out the best in his diverse team, which includes the mysterious computer specialist Orac.

Full of twists and turns, this is a crime thriller that will keep you turning the pages until the shocking ending.

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This is a British police procedural that I procured from Audible Plus after reading a fabulous review from a fellow blogger. Bloggers give the best recs!

A young man who is the son of a serial killer confessing to the murder of a young woman in her kitchen. The police don’t believe him and release him. When another young woman is found dead, things take a turn. Was the young man telling the truth? Soon, one of their own is in danger.

This was a twisty murder mystery, and I loved working with DI Rowan Jackman and DS Marie Evans. The two make a good team feeding off of each other’s theories and ideas. I also find IT tech, Orla Cracken interesting. The characters are well developed and felt genuine.

The mystery is well paced and executed. I was pulled in by the details. The story has a pleasant flow and even though it dealt with murder; it wasn’t overly bloody in grizzly details. I figured out who the suspect was, but enjoyed the ride.

The series is narrated by Richard Armitage, which made listening a pleasure. From his tone to the unique voices he provided, he enhanced the overall tale.

Amazon | Audible

Looking for a good procedural murder-mystery? Check out The Murderer's Son by Joy Ellis, narrated by Richard Armitage. #JackmanAndEvansInvestigations #audiobook #AudiblePlus
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Reading this book contributed to these challenges:

• 2023 Audiobook Challenge

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2023/08/the-murderers-son-by-joy-ellis.html

Marlene Morgan’s Revenge I Will Have delivers an exhilarating and electrifying experience, driving readers through a whirlwind of suspense and intrigue. This high-octane thriller seamlessly weaves together elements of terrorism, heroic Navy SEALs, and an enthralling tale of retribution. Former Navy SEAL Jake Logan finds himself ensnared in a web of guilt after the tragic loss of his fiancée, Alice. The intricacies of the plot unfold as he uncovers a chilling connection between her remains and a terrorist plot. With unwavering determination, Jake and his adept team embark on a pulse-pounding mission to thwart the sinister plans of Asyd Batdadi, the mastermind behind the impending catastrophe. Adding to the complexity, an unexpected alliance forms between Batdadi and the vengeful Jessica, who seeks to settle scores with the world that wronged her. The stakes are nothing short of global, with Wall Street hanging in the balance against a backdrop of searing vendettas and calculated pursuits.

Within the pages of the novel, a captivating cast of characters springs to life, each harboring their own enigmatic pasts and motivations. Jessica’s intricate portrayal, born from a traumatic childhood, captivates the reader with her enigmatic alter ego and the delicate balance between reality and imagination. The book’s gripping action sequences are an absolute spectacle, replete with explosive moments, breathtaking martial arts displays, and cinematic gunfights that leave one craving more. The story consistently captivates with its intricately woven twists and turns. The allure of deciphering the nuanced motives guiding the character’s actions became an engaging aspect, adding to the immersive experience of the narrative. The array of characters each brings their unique diversity and presents a rich tapestry elevating the reader’s connection.

Readers with a penchant for heart-pounding suspense and action-packed narratives will be captivated by the myriad of surprising revelations in Revenge I Will Have. The narrative’s dynamic shifts between chaos and order, between seekers of revenge and champions of peace, sustain an exhilarating guessing game that keeps readers on edge.

Pages: 313 | ASIN: B0CBB6XVD4

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/18/revenge-i-will-have-jake-logan-2/

Step into the enchanting world of Little Bird, where bravery and curiosity collide in a heartwarming tale. Embarking on an adventure that begins with a triumphant break from his shell on a Monday, Little Bird explores the vast wonders of his surroundings. From the delectable dance of worms to the symphony of fellow birdsong, each discovery fuels his aspiration to take flight. Overcoming trepidation, he musters the courage to attempt the impossible, and lo and behold, the once-fledgling Little Bird soars through the skies!

Prepare to be entranced by the pages of Little Bird, a truly captivating children’s book that weaves inspiration into every word. Splashed with vibrant illustrations that paint a kaleidoscope of colors, this literary gem boasts sentences perfectly poised for budding young readers. The rhythmic cadence of rhyming words, paired with the charming delineation of days of the week, makes this more than just a story—it’s an engaging educational escapade.

I found myself captivated by the ingenious fusion of art and prose, fostering an immersive experience that lingers. Beyond the surface, this endearing narrative imparts a valuable lesson—ushering its audience to embrace the unknown with open arms. In a world teeming with unfamiliarity, Little Bird’s journey becomes a metaphor, kindling a sense of courage that resonates with youngsters and adults alike.

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/18/little-bird/

Benign Dystopia: Elder’s Vault follows a high priest and warrior who sets out on a mission to unlock the vault in an attempt to save his species from alien invaders. What was the inspiration for your story? 

When I was much younger, I was plagued by reoccurring dreams, and this is where the plot for the tale came from. At that time, I was bouncing between foster homes and felt as if I had little to no value, so these dreams were kind of a saving grace if you will. At first it was a bit unnerving, for they were not ordinary, or usual by any means. I had no idea why they were happening, and to this day, I still don’t. It wasn’t until I was adopted that they gradually subsided and were replaced by the much more mundane of night visions, which as a side note, don’t occur as frequently. In the roughly thirty or so years since their disappearance, they have yet to return, and I don’t have hope of them ever doing so. With that being said, I suppose the strange dreams I had as a youngling are the inspiration behind the overall concept of the story at large, for without them, I fear the tale wouldn’t exist.

I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from and how did it change as you were writing?

The setting of the moon, Niushki, which plays a vital part within the story, in many ways is a reflection of how I felt during my early years. A barren wasteland with little to no order where trust and family are largely nonexistent. As I wrote however, the world quickly developed traits that were much more reminiscent of my twenties as a whole, where friends became adversaries and death was nothing more than a normality of life. But I found, in all of that chaos, somehow, that I had created a unique world of serenity that’s hostile by nature, which although alien, mirrors our own in many ways. It was actually this very concept of peaceful violence which brought about the novel’s title Benign Dystopia. All that said, the setting of the tale was mostly crafted from my very real experience of the one which shaped my own life, for better or for worse. And yes, although it’s unpredictable, dangerous, and chaotic at times; it’s also full of wonder, joy, and brimming with endless possibilities.

Benign Dystopia has some very interesting characters that have their character flaws but are still likable. How do you go about creating characters for your story?

To build character, I mostly observe and listen to the vast array of people around me. I’ve always been intrigued with what makes an individual different from the next, and as such, I do conduct a bit of people watching from time to time. I’m blessed though, for I’m surrounded by a variety of different cultures and age groups, which helps a great deal in the overall depth of the characters in my works. From their names, to the way they speak, think, and carry themselves, I have in a big part, the countless diverse individuals I’ve met throughout my life. I, of course, also put in a great deal of research into every aspect of the writing process, no matter what it may be, so I’m sure this plays heavy into the subject as well. Outside of that, I find myself delving into subjects such as psychology and the theory of personality on a daily basis. The teachings of philosophers such as Plato, Friedrich Nietzsche, Confucius, Carl Jung, and Aristotle are just some of the few I look to when evolving the psyche of any character, especially those of strong importance. Character as well as world-building are what matters most to me as a writer, and to that end, I spend a good bit of effort in making them as relatable as I can. This in tandem with authentic and engaging personalities, is what I believe make even the most flawed and, dare I say, vile characters, one of which readers would not only connect with on a personal level, but also enjoy.

When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of where that book will take readers?

The second book in the Elder’s Vault series, Tellurian Otherworld, is actually split into two parts, of which I call tomes. The first tome is titled: A Fool’s Tragedy, and has already been reviewed by Literary Titan. As to when it will be officially published, I am not entirely sure, but will certainly keep you up to date. The work will take readers to the world of Neldar, which unlike Benign Dystopia, is more of a fantasy than it is a science fiction. The story follows the same characters and picks up where Benign Dystopia ended, though it focuses heavily on the supernatural elements established within Benign Dystopia’s third part, which may upset those hopeful of immersing themselves in the space opera aspect built in the first book, but worry not, there is a method to the madness. But overall, Tellurian Otherworld, both tomes, will feature some fantasy in the form of wizards, dragons, fairies, and mermaids, as well as others; but it will also include otherworldly entities such as ghosts, genies, zombies, and nagas. When all is said and done though, my hope is that I’ve weaved a meaningful and unforgettable tale that’ll survive the test of time that all can enjoy. I’m sure there’s a lesson in there somewhere too, but I digress, thank you and I wish you all a legendary day.

Author links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/18/reoccurring-dreams-from-my-past/

In the course of reading this riveting narrative, I was moved by its profound emotional resonance and thought-provoking elements that are strewn throughout this book. The author escorts us on a harrowing expedition, illuminating a chilling reality that calls for immediate societal reflection. This captivating tale operates not only as an engrossing story but as an urgent appeal, provoking readers to face the deeply entrenched issue of sexual exploitation.

This stirring novel penetrates a lamentable yet pervasive aspect of contemporary society, focusing specifically on the disturbing field of sex trafficking, particularly concerning young girls within the United States. Centering around the fictional character of Persephone Wolf, a fourteen-year-old entrapped by the deceptive assurances of an older and manipulative lover, we are led into the perilous world of prostitution. Persephone’s descent into this bleak existence reveals a haunting awareness of the vanishing of her peers, forcing her to harness her inner courage and battle the terrifying conditions surrounding her.

I appreciated the emotional depth of this literary piece as it shed an unfiltered light on the grim facets of our culture. The author’s talent in delineating characters is praiseworthy, encapsulating the fragile innocence of youth systematically preyed upon. It is pertinent to note that some segments are marked by explicit content, making them potentially unsettling for some readers. However, these descriptions serve to portray the bleak reality of sex trafficking with startling honesty, underscoring the agonizing truths faced by countless innocent victims. The narrative, though fictional, resonated with me as a visceral cry for recognition and redemption from a world often indifferent to such suffering.

Books that courageously probe significant societal matters, such as this one, warrant widespread attention for the potent consciousness they arouse. The grave subject of sex trafficking, frequently relegated to the shadows, is thrust into the light in this commanding narrative. This makes it not only a compelling read but an essential one for those seeking both understanding and empathy toward an issue demanding our collective awareness and action.

Pages: 261 | ASIN: B0BZZS49RK

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/18/night-princess-my-year-as-a-sex-slave/

Not My War follows a young woman who returns home to Paris to find it under Nazi occupation and slowly realizes the horrors they are committing and how it impacts her life. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?

As a teenager in England during World War II, my mother had a French pen pal– a girl of about her own age, who lived in Paris. Shortly after the German occupation began, my mother received a heart-rending letter from her friend, describing her grief and fear as she watched hundreds of Nazis triumphantly enter the city in long columns with their weapons fully on display. My mother held on to this letter for decades. It was so emotional, I couldn’t read it without crying! My mother died of Alzheimer’s’ a long time ago, and after her death I searched through her things for hours, looking for that letter. I never did find it, which is a pity because I thought it should belong in a museum. But I did incorporate a similar scene in ‘Not My War,’ when the protagonist witnesses that very same event.   

Louise just wants to enjoy her newfound freedom after returning from boarding school, only to discover the truth about the occupation of her homeland. What were some driving ideals behind your character’s development?

Louise is by nature fun-loving and impetuous. When the harsh realities of the occupation start to affect her and her family, she puts her head in the sand, becoming willful and totally self-centered. Her behavior becomes so outrageous that she starts losing her friends. Only when she is mistaken for a Jew, and is treated as such, does she finally realize the error of her ways. 

What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?

I did a great deal of research before I started to write, and came across some useful first-hand accounts of how atrociously the Jews were treated—not just by the Germans, but also by the French police. I wanted to convey how miserable the lives of ordinary people became under the occupation, many of them slowly starving to death because of the harsh rationing. Also important to me was to convey the sense of fear predominant at the time. Many ordinary people chose to turn a blind eye to the atrocities they witnessed because they were afraid for their own lives. I did my best to remain as close to the truth as possible, and many of the events that take place in the book actually happened—things so truly awful that I could never have made them up.

What is the next book that you’re working on and when can your fans expect it out?

No more Nazis for me, for the time being anyway. I need to get my thoughts away from that dreadful time. I’m working on a new series set in Victorian times at the start of the Industrial Revolution. It focuses on the lives of women working in a corset factory. One of the characters becomes a serial killer! I’m only partway through writing, so it probably won’t be published until the fall.

Author Links: Goodreads | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2023/08/18/a-heart-rending-letter/