The Night Island by Jayne Ann Krentz delivered another paranormal romantic suspense story in the Lost Night Files series. This is Talia’s story as she meets Luke Rand and the two investigate the disappearance of Phoebe, a fan of the trio’s podcast who has a list of people who may be targeted like they were. Suspense and a side of heat, perfect for a chilly evening.

The Night Island
by Jayne Ann Krentz
Series: The Lost Night Files #2
Genres: Paranormal, Romantic Suspense
Source: Publisher
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The disappearance of a mysterious informant leads two people desperate for answers to an island of deadly deception in this new novel in the Lost Night Files trilogy by New York Times bestselling author Jayne Ann Krentz.

Talia March, Pallas Llewellyn, and Amelia Rivers, bonded by a night they all have no memory of, are dedicated to uncovering the mystery of what really happened to them months ago—an experience that brought out innate psychic abilities in each of them. The women suspect they were test subjects years earlier, and that there are more people like them—all they have to do is find the list. When Talia follows up on a lead from Phoebe, a fan of the trio’s podcast, she discovers that the informant has vanished.

Talia isn’t the only one looking for Phoebe, however. Luke Rand, a hunted and haunted man who is chasing the same list that Talia is after, also shows up at the meeting place. It’s clear he has his own agenda, and they are instantly suspicious of each other. But when a killer begins to stalk them, they realize they have to join forces to find Phoebe and the list.

The rocky investigation leads Talia and Luke to a rustic, remote retreat on Night Island in the Pacific Northwest. The retreat promises to rejuvenate guests with the Unplugged Experience. Upon their arrival, Talia and Luke discover guests are quite literally cut off from the outside world because none of their high-tech devices work on the island. It soon becomes clear that Phoebe is not the first person to disappear into the strange gardens that surround the Unplugged Experience retreat. And then the first mysterious death occurs…

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Talia March, Pallas Llewellyn, and Amelia Rivers, three strangers who all lost memories of a night and woke up differently, have joined to investigate. They created The Lost Night Files, a podcast dedicated to finding answers. While each book contains its own romance, there is an overall story arc. I recommend reading them in the order of their release.

Talia hears from a fan of the podcast. Phoebe claims to have a list of people who were all tested years earlier for their psychic abilities. She agrees to meet Phoebe. When she arrives, Phoebe has vanished, and she instead discovers Luke Rand. He, like Talia, is there for the list. He has a missing night and a dark secret as well. Scattered clues and intuition give them their first lead.

Both Luke & Talia have enhanced abilities. When an attempt is made on Luke’s life, they investigate together. Which leads them to a remote retreat on Night Island in the Pacific Northwest. The Unplugged Experience promises to rejuvenation. The island reminded me of previous books in Krentz’s paranormal stories with fast-growing plants and unbalanced properties.

The tale that unfolds was suspenseful, filled with danger and revealed what happened to Luke on his missing night. I liked both Talia and Luke and felt they fit as a couple, although both claimed they had commitment issues. The ending felt a bit disjointed, which kept this from being a favorite.

Krentz mixed passion with danger and the isolated location added to the overall suspension. We learned more and gained a new member. This series is perfect for fans of mystery, romantic suspense and paranormal woo-woo.

Amazon | Audible

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/01/the-night-island-by-jayne-ann-krentz.html

In Research Can Be Murder, by Caryl Janis, readers are introduced to Emma Streyt, a relatable and engaging protagonist who finds herself suddenly unemployed. Fate intervenes, presenting her with an opportunity to immerse herself in family memorabilia dating back to the early 20th century. The narrative takes a thrilling turn as Emma’s innocent curiosity transforms into a gripping investigation upon her discovery of potentially stolen items interspersed among diary entries within the boxes.

Janis’s portrayal of Emma is refreshingly authentic. The character’s depth and relatability are a testament to the author’s ability to craft a protagonist who transcends stereotypes, offering a nuanced and genuine representation of a woman navigating unexpected challenges. The supporting cast is equally well-drawn, providing a solid foundation for the story’s unfolding events. The plot captivates from the outset, particularly appealing to those with a penchant for unraveling historical mysteries. Janis skillfully escalates the tension, weaving a narrative that is both accessible and engrossing. The story offers a rewarding and delightful experience for readers in pursuit of a captivating tale.

Research Can Be Murder is a well-crafted mystery thriller that scores a perfect rating for its compelling narrative, robust character development, and immersive storytelling. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to lose themselves in a story that is both entertaining and thoughtfully constructed.

Pages: 293 | ISBN 978-1-5092-5447-7

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/09/research-can-be-murder/

Expiration Date by Bert Whirl is an anthology of short stories that weave together emotional depth, thought-provoking themes, and engaging narratives. The collection opens with the poignant tale of Juan, grappling with the profound loss of his beloved Jennifer. Despite facing opposition from her father, Juan’s enduring love and deep grief are captured with a poignant clarity that resonates with anyone familiar with loss. The author’s skillful use of vivid descriptions and nuanced portrayal of emotions draws the reader deeply into Juan’s world.

Following this is a story of ambition and the supernatural, centered on a young man’s venture into real estate. His plans to renovate an abandoned building for profit are unexpectedly complicated by the discovery of spirits lingering within its walls. This narrative takes the reader on a suspenseful journey, questioning the intersection of ambition and the unknown. Another compelling narrative is that of Christian, a new executioner confronted with the grim realities of his role. His internal turmoil and ethical dilemmas provide a gripping exploration of the human psyche and the moral complexities surrounding justice and retribution. The story delves into the profound impact of his first execution, leaving readers to contemplate the weight of such responsibilities. The collection continues with more stories, each delving into rarely explored themes such as love, family, relationships, and the afterlife. Whirl’s concise and direct storytelling captivates the reader, ensuring a lingering impact long after the final page is turned. The book’s exploration of profound themes through accessible and engaging narratives makes it a compelling read.

Expiration Date is an invitation to reflect on life’s multifaceted experiences. Bert Whirl’s ability to convey deep emotional truths and thought-provoking scenarios in a straightforward manner makes this book a noteworthy addition to any reader’s library, especially those with an appreciation for short fiction that leaves a lasting impression.

Pages: 61 | ASIN : B0C9WNM79D

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/09/expiration-date-a-short-story-collection/

In Flames of Flamenco, by Jennifer Ivy Walker, readers are whisked away on a journey with Ella Jacob, a French teacher whose educational excursion to Paris transforms into an unexpected odyssey of passion. Her path converges with Jean Luc Cortes, a masterful French artist, and together they embark on a whirlwind romance that redefines the depths of desire against the vibrant backdrop of a Parisian summer. As the narrative unfolds, Ella finds herself at a crossroads, contemplating the future of her career and the intense love affair that has unexpectedly taken root. Walker eloquently captures the essence of an unforgettable summer, where the fiery passion of romance is ignited amidst the artistic tapestry of Paris.

Flames of Flamenco caters to the aficionados of erotic romance, delivering a potent concoction of love and sensuality. Walker’s vivid portrayal of the couple’s passionate encounters ensures an immersive experience for readers. The novel’s focus on the primary storyline, devoid of extraneous subplots, allows for an undistracted immersion into Ella and Jean Luc’s fervent journey. The book tantalizes readers with the potential for a richer exploration of Jean Luc’s character, especially his intriguing fears and vulnerabilities. Moreover, the inclusion of conflicts like Colette Ducharme’s scandal intriguingly opens doors for a more evolved and gratifying resolution. The story’s intense romantic core remains its triumphant feature. The author adeptly sustains a palpable sense of excitement and anticipation, captivating readers with the potent and intoxicating allure of a love affair set in the romantic heart of Paris.

Despite treading on familiar ground, Flames of Flamenco guarantees a deeply emotional odyssey, captivating readers and leaving them eager to unravel the destiny of this fervent summer love affair.

Pages: 120 | ASIN : B0CKY742G8

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/09/flames-of-flamenco/

In Heroes of the Empire Book 1: The Cavalier by Israh Azizi, readers are transported into a vividly depicted world of conflict, power struggles, and personal growth. The novel follows the intertwined fates of Velamir and Natassa, two characters navigating the complexities of a militaristic empire. Velamir, discovered on a battlefield at a young age, is adopted by Winston, a distinguished commander in the Prolus army. His upbringing at Chishman Academy molds him into a formidable warrior, facing the harsh realities of war alongside fellow cadets. His character is a testament to resilience in the face of adversity, particularly highlighted by his experiences of overcoming bullying during his training. Contrasting Velamir’s journey is Princess Natassa’s tale, which delves into the confines of royal expectations and personal desires. Bound by her father’s ambitions, Natassa is compelled to marry Prince Draven, a match she neither desires nor supports. Her storyline raises poignant questions about the sacrifices made by those in power, and her struggle to assert her own agency within a rigid political framework is compelling.

Azizi skillfully navigates the themes of power, leadership, and familial duty. The Emperor’s relentless pursuit of power and disregard for the well-being of his people, including forcing Natassa into an arranged marriage and ruthlessly dealing with defeated soldiers, provides a stark commentary on the darker aspects of leadership. The narrative is rich in action and drama, maintaining a well-paced flow that keeps readers engaged. The vivid characterization ensures that each figure in the story is distinct, with their individual journeys contributing to the tapestry of the novel’s world. The blend of personal struggles against a backdrop of war and political machinations makes for a compelling read.

For readers who enjoy young adult fiction that explores themes of war, family conflict, and the complexities of leadership, Heroes of the Empire Book 1: The Cavalier is a noteworthy addition to the genre. Azizi’s narrative prowess brings to life a story that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, making it a recommended read for those drawn to tales of resilience and personal growth amidst turbulent times.

Pages: 453 | ASIN : B0BLXTZXGG

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/09/heroes-of-the-empire-book-1-the-cavalier/

Halfway to Hell is the story of an unassuming man’s encounter with the occult following a brush with death and his fight to overcome the curse that burdens him. Where did the idea for this novel come from?

I like to take ordinary people and put them into extraordinary situations. The core idea of the book was the notion of how people are sent red flags as warnings and how often they ignore them. The working title for the first phase/edit was “Red Flag Angels.” The story branched off from that theme quite organically. Remember people, don’t ignore red flags! They are sent for a reason.

Is there anything from your own life that went into creating your main character Joe?

I, like many others, have indulged myself in the bad habit of ignoring red flags that have been sent my way. Ignoring my gut instincts. I think Joe’s personality is more than a little like my own. Sometimes I can be “Mr Procrastination.” Fighting an uphill battle against other people. We have all felt like that at some point in life, but what about fighting actual demonic forces? How would we fare? Who would aid us?

What is it that draws you to the paranormal fiction genre?

I’ve always had a vast and vivid imagination. As a child, I preferred to read books like Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” and works by Jules Verne and H.G. Wells. I would probably struggle to write a straight-up crime novel, without veering off into the paranormal or science fiction. My first book series “Midas” started the trend.

Is this the first book in a series? If so, when is the next book coming out, and what can your fans expect in the next story?

I do plan to write a follow-up to Halfway to Hell. Probably next year. I think there needs to be some resolution and the characters need to get back into action. These demons need to be dealt with! At the moment, I am writing a fourth and final book in the Midas series, penned under “Peter Birkett”, so it will have to wait a little while.

Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/01/09/ignoring-red-flags/