Sophia Rose is here with a Prime first read, A Killer’s Wife by Victor Methos. This is the first in the Desert Plain crime thriller series. Grab a cup and see what she liked about this police procedural and courtroom thriller.

A Killer’s Wife
by Victor Methos
Series: Desert Plain #1
Genres: Crime Fiction
Source: Prime
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:

From the bestselling author of The Neon Lawyer comes a gripping thriller about a prosecutor confronted with the darkest part of her past and the worst fears for her future…

Fourteen years ago, prosecutor Jessica Yardley’s husband went to prison for a series of brutal murders. She’s finally created a life with her daughter and is a well-respected attorney. She’s moving on. But when a new rash of homicides has her ex-husband, Eddie, written all over them—the nightmares of her past come back to life.

The FBI asks Jessica to get involved in the hunt for this copycat killer—which means visiting her ex and collaborating with the man who tore her life apart.

As the copycat’s motives become clearer, the new life Jessica created for herself gets darker. She must ask herself who she can trust and if she’s capable of stopping the killer—a man whose every crime is a bloody valentine from a twisted mastermind she’s afraid she may never escape.

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Sophia Rose’s Review

A Federal Prosecutor finds her painful past might be just what the FBI needs to bring down a serial killer.  I was eager to return to Victor Methos’ books after devouring the first in his Shepard and Gray series a few years back.  A Killer’s Wife provided the police procedural and courtroom drama paired with the personal story of the characters.  I loved the blend and read swiftly through particularly the last half when there were some delicious twists and turns to make me gasp.

A Killer’s Wife introduces Federal Prosecutor Yardley and FBI Agent Baldwin who are brought together to stop a vicious killer.  Jessica Yardley has worked hard to get to a place in her life when she’s known for being a good lawyer and responsible mom with a safe home and growing relationship with a kind man rather than the woman who was married for years to a serial killer and didn’t know it until his arrest.

Of course, that past with Eddie is just what is needed now when a seeming copycat is working.  Baldwin and Yardley have a friendly history so he knows what he’s asking her to do when he comes to her for help.  I appreciated how the author developed that side of the story as Jessica steeled herself to go to the prison and meet with Eddie and also revisit the chilling darkness of him to do what she must.  Jessica has studied the psyche of the worst killers over the course of her career and is a behavioral expert in her own right.  She tracks the killers cerebrally while Baldwin was more a man of action who sometimes let his need to get his man get him close to crossing lines which Jessica was there to keep him from doing.

The book was not just about them working the case.  Jessica must face ‘the good ol’ boy network in her office with her boss and his cronies right when Jessica knows she’s the best chance of prosecuting and putting the killer behind bars, but her case is given to another.  As a reader, I was biting my nails (figuratively) and angry because Jessica and her daughter will be in acute danger if the person gets off so she has a vested interest that her boss seemed to blow off because of his political ambitions.

Speaking of her daughter, Jessica is in a battle on the home front because Tara is determined to not see the truth about the guy she is dating and Jessica must show tough love to protect her which turns Tara mean.  He’s a petty criminal taking drugs and has used girls who fall for him.  Tara is her father’s daughter with an off the charts IQ.  Jessica refuses to put her in a school for the gifted even though she is bored and acting out at the local high school.

At the halfway point, I was stunned when it seemed the case was solved.  What else is going to fill the rest of the pages, I naively wondered.  Oh my, what indeed! I’d only worked out who the copycat was not long before Yardley and Baldwin, but knowing whodunit was only the beginning.  Now, the courtroom fireworks began along with a few more gasp-inducing twists.  Right up to the end, this book was loaded with surprises.

I am flawed enough to get grim satisfaction when Jessica got two particular triumphant moments to really stick it to certain people I thought really deserved it.  I liked Jessica, Baldwin, and eventually Tara.  I am intrigued to see what comes next in the series.

Those who like thrillers showcasing both police procedural and courtroom drama should definitely give this one a go.

Amazon | Audible

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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/03/a-killers-wife-by-victor-methos.html

Emory Frost’s Onestonia paints a vivid and complex portrait of Taukin, a character caught amid tribal conflicts and personal struggles. Taukin, belonging to the Onestonian race but not of pure Rintic blood, faces prejudice and animosity from his tribesmen, highlighting the nuanced themes of identity and acceptance in Frost’s world.

The novel’s strength lies in its intricate world-building. Frost creates an expansive universe featuring diverse landscapes, from dense forests to subterranean tunnel worlds. It populates it with intriguing species like the color-shifting Rintic, the underground-dwelling Suvanth, and the four-armed giants, Umgara. Each species enriches the narrative tapestry with its unique traits and cultures. The author’s attention to detail in describing this world is commendable, especially in portraying various creatures, like the gentle Melps and the ferocious Satupha. One notable aspect is the author’s creative integration of natural elements into the societal fabric, such as using fungi for communication in the Suvanth tunnels. These details showcase Frost’s ability to blend fantasy elements seamlessly into the story’s framework. The epic battle scenes are a testament to Frost’s descriptive prowess, suggesting they would translate well to a cinematic format. Adding a glossary would be a helpful touch to guide readers through the novel’s rich and unique language, while a more distinct marking of time transitions could further streamline the narrative’s flow.

Onestonia is a testament to Frost’s imaginative world-building and storytelling skills. The novel is a journey through a richly envisioned world, offering readers an immersive experience in a realm of fantasy and adventure. It is a compelling read for those who enjoy delving into new, intricately crafted worlds and exploring themes of belonging and identity.

Pages: 368 | ASIN : B0C7NTKM45

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/13/onestonia-pursuit-of-the-light-cipher/

Czech soldier Filip Sedlák never wanted to fight for the Austro-Hungarian Empire. So at the first opportunity, he defected to the Russians. Now he and others like him have formed the Czechoslovak Legion. Their goal: leave the chaos of Russia, sail to France, and help the Allies defeat the Central Powers, thereby toppling a hated empire and winning an independent Czechoslovakia.

With the fall of the tsar, Nadia Linskaya’s life is in ruins. Her family is dead, her lands are confiscated, and her aristocratic world is gone forever. But Nadia is determined to elude the Bolshevik agent who destroyed her family and find a way to survive in this changed world.

When Nadia takes refuge with the Czechoslovak Legion, the last thing she expects is an ally. But when Filip proposes a sham marriage to ensure her safe passage across Siberia, she takes it. Neither Filip nor Nadia expect real love, not when the legion has to take over the longest railroad in the world—and then hold it against Bolshevik counterattacks, partisan sabotage, allied intrigue, and a set of brutal Siberian winters. At risk is the future of Czechoslovakia, the fate of Russia—and their hearts.

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/13/a-waltz-with-traitors/

Fables possess a unique charm and elegance in storytelling, artfully weaving narratives that resonate with our lives through inventive and personality-rich characters. SOAR: A Soul’s Quest exemplifies this tradition. Authored by Christopher Morris, Ketan Kulkarni, and Francis Yoo, the book delves into the classic fable format with a contemporary touch. Centering on a young eagle grappling with a pivotal choice — the comfort of its familiar home versus the allure and dangers of the wider world — this tale echoes the thematic depth found in classics like “The Little Prince.” While its narrative can be seen as a journey of self-discovery and growth, its universal appeal lies in the personal interpretations it invites from each reader.

What elevates SOAR further is its visual storytelling. Reeva Kulkarni’s illustrations are not merely complementary; they are integral, bringing the story’s fantastical elements to life in a way that is both accessible and enchanting. This synergy of text and image enhances the reader’s engagement, allowing them to immerse themselves fully in the world of the fable. The prose is poignant, balancing emotional depth and the whimsical charm intrinsic to fables. Its appeal is broad, capable of touching readers across age groups with equal profundity.

For those who find themselves at life’s crossroads, uncertain of their choices, this book offers a reflective journey, reminding us that insights often come from the most unexpected sources. Despite its brevity, SOAR is a book to be savored. Readers are encouraged to take their time, allowing each chapter to resonate and reveal its impact. This is a story that stays with the reader long after the last page is turned, a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted fable.

SOAR: A Soul’s Quest is a beautifully crafted fable that weaves meaningful storytelling with captivating illustrations. Its universal themes, coupled with the emotional depth of its narrative, make it a timeless read for an audience of any age. This book doesn’t just tell a story; it invites reflection and self-discovery.

Pages: 192 | ISBN : 1990137393

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/13/soar-a-souls-quest/

WWII FRANCE, A Writer’s Guide is an exceptional resource for writers seeking to set their narratives in France during the tumultuous years of World War II. The author has meticulously compiled a treasure trove of information, offering a comprehensive view of French life in this era. The data, meticulously arranged alphabetically, covers various aspects of daily living, from cultural practices to climatic details.

One of the book’s standout features is its dedication to authenticity. It offers writers valuable tools such as detailed lists, a compilation of common French names, and a month-by-month weather guide, ensuring historical accuracy in their work. Particularly enlightening are the corrections of common misconceptions frequently portrayed in novels and films about this period. The book sheds light on intriguing cultural nuances, such as the rarity of tea consumption among the French, a beverage predominantly reserved for the affluent and considered ostentatious by the majority. While the book primarily caters to a specialized audience—authors writing in English about wartime France—it transcends this niche. It’s a vital reference for creators in various mediums, from novels to films and TV dramas, particularly for those in the United Kingdom, United States, and Canada. The differences between French and Anglo-American cultures are pronounced, making a detailed guide like this indispensable for crafting authentic narratives.

Elegantly written and engaging, WWII FRANCE, A Writer’s Guide is far from a dry historical account. It’s a fascinating exploration of a critical era, filled with insights that will captivate writers and enthusiasts alike. The book is highly recommended for aspiring authors and anyone interested in World War II or French history. The continuing fascination with stories set in wartime France suggests that this book will remain a valuable resource for many years to come.

Pages 442 | ASIN : B0CV9M1R68

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/13/wwii-france-a-writers-guide/

The Time-Optimized Life explores the perception of time management and introduces readers to the concept of Time-Optimization, teaching them a holistic, proactive approach to managing their time. Why was this an important book for you to write?

As I began to collect data from my work with clients, I found that people are generally very reactive when it comes to their use of time. There is not a lot of time invested in planning for and anticipating future events. I want to be able to change that attitude and help people be more proactive time managers to create flexibility to do more activities in their life.

How much research did you undertake for this book, and how much time did it take to put it all together?

I reviewed dozens of articles and research papers as well as my library of extensive productivity and time management books. In addition, I was able to draw on data collected from hundreds of Time Management Analysis (TMA) assessments that I use with my clients. The TMA actually became the outline for the book. Trying to practice what I preach, I gave myself a goal to write at least 750 words a day. I was able to get into a grove and had the manuscript done in about 100 days.

What is one piece of advice you wish someone had given you when you were younger to help you build better time optimization skills?

I would have liked to have heard more of the phrase, “Be more patient.” I know that is the last thing younger people want to hear. However, I tell my clients (and I do it for myself) is to use the 20% rule. If you going to work on something that is important, allocate the time you think it will take, and then add at least 20% on top of that. Significant activities usually take more time than we think.

What is one thing that you hope the readers take away from The Time-Optimized Life?

I want people to be more proactive in their planning and use of time. If they are able to improve using 10% of their “awake time”, they will find they have “found” an additional 12 hours in their life to do amazing things.

Author Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/13/proactive-not-reactive/