Feb 28, 2025 | Editorial reviews
The Third Estate: Secrets of the Manor is perfect for fans of fast-paced thrillers with intricate conspiracies, morally complex characters, and unpredictable twists that keep you second-guessing until the final reveal.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
A single decision, a moment in time, can change everything
General Summary for Context:
The Third Estate: Secrets of the Manor opens with Kai, a seasoned assassin, executing what should be just another job. But something about this kill unsettles him in a way he can’t explain.
Twelve years later, he’s assigned a new target—the husband of the very person he killed that night.
Meanwhile, Sophie, a dedicated cadet on the brink of graduating from flight academy, has spent the past four years pushing herself to be the best. But when she breaks protocol to save a fellow cadet, her future is suddenly in jeopardy. As she awaits the academy’s decision on her fate, devastating news reaches her—her adoptive father has died in an explosion.
Granted special permission to attend his memorial, Sophie soon realizes that something isn’t right. The details don’t add up. The deeper she looks, the more unsettling the truth becomes.
A mystery within a mystery, The Third Estate weaves intrigue, deception, and suspense into a gripping narrative where nothing is as it seems.
Concise Review:
Kai is an assassin, en route to complete another job—just like countless before. But something about this one feels… off. Fast forward twelve years, and he’s given a new mission, yet that same uneasy feeling lingers.
Meanwhile, Sophie is on the verge of graduating from flight academy, having dedicated years to becoming the best. But when she disobeys a direct order to save a fellow cadet, she jeopardizes everything—her career, her future, and her place in the academy. Just as she prepares to face the consequences, she receives devastating news: her adoptive father has died. Granted leave just before her final flight to attend his memorial, she arrives at the manor, where unsettling inconsistencies begin to surface. The more she digs, the more the truth unravels—until it all comes crashing down around her.
One of the book’s greatest strengths is its structure. What first appear to be disconnected storylines gradually interweave, revealing a masterfully crafted puzzle that doesn’t fully snap into place until the final moments. A mystery within a mystery—secret organizations, assassins, military secrets, and a girl at the center of it all, too sharp for her own good yet completely unaware of the web of deception tightening around her.
Sophie is far from perfect, but that’s what makes her compelling. She’s flawed, impulsive, and rebellious, yet undeniably charming and full of grit. Despite being part of a rigid system, she refuses to be controlled, following her own code instead.
A thrilling mystery that keeps you constantly second-guessing, the novel delivers twists at every turn until you no longer know what to believe. And just when you think all the loose ends are tied up, the final reveal flips everything on its head—leaving you questioning everything you thought you knew.
General Thoughts on the Novel:
The Third Estate is a layered thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you have it figured out, a shocking twist pulls you in an entirely new direction, making for an unpredictable and exhilarating read.
Fast-paced and gripping from the very first page, the novel is written in a way that fully immerses you in its world. The characters are vividly developed, leaping off the page with depth and complexity—especially Sophie. Flawed yet fiercely determined, she’s the kind of protagonist you can’t help but root for.
A thrilling blend of mystery, military intrigue, and secret organizations, the novel masterfully weaves its elements together, culminating in a satisfying and compelling conclusion that leaves you wanting more.
Highly recommended for fans of military mysteries and high-stakes thrillers with a touch of covert intrigue.
Find the book here on Amazon!
Feb 18, 2025 | Editorial reviews
We recommend Shock Pepper to readers who enjoy unconventional, twist-filled novels that take time to unfold but ultimately deliver a gripping and immersive experience, particularly those who appreciate psychological suspense and high-stakes storytelling.
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Which line stood out from all the others in the book?
It was a beautiful little girl, who looked almost like Kavitha, but not her (taken out of context) but heartbreaking, really, when you realize that her daughter was kidnapped and she mistakes a little girl for her own child, who is still missing.
General Summary for Context:
With multiple intertwining storylines, this novel is packed with intrigue, depth, and excitement. While each arc is compelling in its own right, I’ll focus on my favorite—though rest assured, there are plenty of others just as thrilling.
Sam is at rock bottom. Unemployed and drowning in debt, he’s on the verge of losing both his girlfriend (soon to be ex) and his grip on hope. With no money and no prospects, despair sets in. But just when things seem hopeless, his friend Adrian offers an unconventional solution—one that involves consulting a witch, falling into an indefinite slumber, and waking up armed with the tools for wealth and success. A foolproof plan… or is it?
Does this wild scheme actually work? That’s for you to find out. But one thing’s for sure—this novel delivers an unpredictable, exhilarating ride that keeps you hooked until the very end.
Concise Review:
At first, my mind was spinning. Just as I became engrossed in one storyline, the chapter would end, and a new one would begin with different characters and an entirely fresh plot. I had read the author’s note and knew this was intentional—but experiencing it firsthand was a unique and unexpected journey.
Once I adjusted to the rhythm of the narrative, I found myself appreciating the variety and depth each storyline brought to the book. The structure kept me engaged, always eager to see how each thread would unfold. The dialogue, at times, felt slightly unconventional, but within the distinctive world of Shock Pepper, it seemed to fit the characters and their surroundings. In the end, it added to the book’s charm rather than detracting from it.
Overall, the novel offers an intriguing, dynamic reading experience that keeps you on your toes. It’s a fascinating ride well worth taking!
General Thoughts on the Novel:
Unlike anything I’ve read before, this novel is refreshingly unique—eccentric, full of unexpected twists, and structured in a way that takes a few chapters to fully settle into. But once I did, I was completely captivated.
One storyline that particularly stood out to me was the gripping tale of a kidnapping. What begins as an innocent outing—a mother trusting a family friend to take her daughter out to play—quickly spirals into something far more sinister. I won’t spoil the details, but let’s just say the tension is palpable, and the stakes keep rising.
This book is an experience—one that pulls you into its unpredictable world and doesn’t let go. Step into Shock Pepper and see for yourself!
Find the book here on Amazon!
Jan 14, 2025 | Editors' Blog, Editorial reviews
We recommend Skeleton Trail for readers of sci-fi and gaming-inspired stories who enjoy unique concepts, immersive world-building, and a blend of action, mystery, and engaging characters.
General Summary for Context:
A unique and captivating story about Sam, who unexpectedly wakes up in a strange and unfamiliar world resembling the video games he adores. Confused and determined, Sam embarks on a thrilling quest to understand how he ended up in this virtual reality and, more importantly, how to win the game and return to the real world.
With its intriguing concept and well-paced narrative, this tale masterfully combines mystery, adventure, and a touch of nostalgia for gaming enthusiasts. A thoroughly enjoyable read for anyone who loves immersive and imaginative storytelling!
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Concise Review:
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Its unique concept sets it apart and makes it a truly captivating read. The integration of video game elements into the storyline adds an innovative and exciting layer that will appeal to gamers and non-gamers alike. The characters are richly developed and compelling, each contributing to the story in meaningful ways.
The world-building is exceptional, vividly bringing the game-like setting to life and immersing readers in its intricacies. The well-balanced pacing ensures the story flows smoothly, maintaining suspense and keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. This is a must-read for fans of creative, genre-blending fiction with a fresh perspective.
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General Thoughts on the Novel:
Undoubtedly one of the most unique books I’ve encountered in the sci-fi genre! This story masterfully combines a variety of engaging elements, from immersive gameplay and fascinating sci-fi concepts to an intriguing layer of conspiracy that keeps the reader guessing.
The writing is sharp and polished, bringing to life a cast of likable, well-drawn characters that are easy to connect with. The narrative held my attention from start to finish, with its perfect balance of action, mystery, and thoughtful world-building.
It’s a compelling read that not only entertains but also leaves you eager to dive into the next instalment of the series. Highly recommended for fans of innovative and multifaceted sci-fi!
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Skeleton Trail: The Gunfighter by Kevin Higgins is available on Amazon.
Dec 23, 2024 | Editorial reviews, Interviews
Today, we’re talking with Walter Broach about his book, Spiritual Energy and You
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I’m 86 years old
Why do you write?
It is fun. I like to research stuff and save it so it is easy for me to flesh it out into books.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
I will drop dead soon because I’m old. I’m curious about what happens after death. My next book will be about the material of which we are composed, where it came from, how we got it and what happens to it after death.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I believe I enjoy doing research that interests me the most. I will read anything that comes into my view.
How would you describe your writing process?
I go to my desk and sit down. Then I started messing with my computer by playing a game of Solitaire. Then, I start researching or writing. Google has made the research easy. We don’t have to go to the library any more.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
It is good for their brain because they get to see lots of viewpoints.
What advice would you have for other writers?
Write and read. If you want to write, do it. The more you do it, the better you get at it.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I do a short title that is descriptive of the genre of the book and then a longer subtitle telling what the book is about, Then I have someone else do the cover because I want the book to look good.
What’s your next step?
To write at least one more book. I’m excited about it. It will be about life before we were born and after we die.
What book do you wish you’d written?
No book not mine. I love reading other peoples stuff, I learn from them.
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
I love to read them.
FIND WALTER’S BOOK ON AMAZON
Dec 23, 2024 | Editorial reviews, Interviews
Today, we’re talking with Anthony Wildman about his book, In the Company of Knaves
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
I didn’t start writing until after I turned sixty, which was unexpected to me, let alone the rest of the world!
Why do you write?
I often joke that my writing is really only an excuse to do historical research, which is probably half true. But why do I write? Mostly because I have discovered that telling stories, whether true or completely made up, is a lot of fun.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
As the third book in a series about the early life of Shakespeare, it is to some extent built on the two first two novels. But the specific plot in this book was inspired by a few slightly murky historical facts. One was the closure of two of London’s major acting companies in 1589, apparently for some kind of transgression against public morality, though the nature of the actual offence is unknown. The other is the well-known enmity that developed between Shakespeare and another writer, Robert Greene, the reasons for which are obscure. The rest of my ideas for the book were hung from those two pegs.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
The wonderful thing about history is that it offers an abundance of great stories and intriguing mysteries, both of which combine to create a gold mine for a novelist. And where a historian has to say ‘well, this or this might have happened, or it might not’, I can pick the story I like and just tell it. Exploring all those possibilities is great fun.
How would you describe your writing process?
It has evolved over the years. For my first book in the Shakespeare series, I just started with an idea and wrote, letting the story unfold as I went. But for ‘The Diplomat of Florence’, my novel about Machiavelli, I had to be much more structured, since I was following very well documented events. More recently I have ended up being a kind of hybrid between being a ‘pantser’ and a planner, spending a good deal of time working up the ploy in outline before writing the book itself, but also allowing the narrative to evolve without it being enslaved to the initial plot. Thank heavens I discovered a software package called Scrivener, which makes that kind of writing style very easy.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
I do find social media a bit vexing. It often feels as if it is a kind of voracious beast whose appetites can never be satisfied, and if you aren’t careful you can end up spending all your time feeding it. Like many, I feel as if its initial promise is slowly being subverted by crass commercialism. But having said all that, there is no denying that it is an important channel of communication if you use it to find the right audience.
What advice would you have for other writers?
I’ve often been asked this, and I usually decline to give much advice – I am very conscious that, though I have been at it for six or seven years now, I am relatively new to this game, with much to learn myself. If pushed, I would say that the most important thing for a writer to do is to write! Sounds simple, but creating anything is hard work, and we all put things off that are hard, don’t we? But in my experience, just getting down to work and starting pretty soon opens the creative taps, and things start flowing.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I choose the titles of my books to convey as succinctly as possible what the book is about. Anyone who knows anything about Shakespeare, for example, would recognise the words ‘What News on the Rialto?’ as a line from The Merchant of Venice, and therefore would have some idea that the book is set in Venice and that it is related to Shakespeare in some way. Similarly, ‘The Diplomat of Florence’ tells the reader the setting and general background of the book. So in most respects it is driven by the needs of marketing more than anything else. Much the same is true of my covers. I have an excellent cover designer who comes up with brilliant concepts, but the overall design is governed by marketing. It has to convey what the book is about and where it is set, and it has to stand out on the Amazon page and anywhere else it is advertised.
What’s your next step?
I have a few more books lurking in my mind. My next project is likely to be a novel about Napoleon Bonaparte, specifically about his time spent on the island of Elba before he made the fateful decision to return to France and commence the campaign that ended with Waterloo and his final exile to St Helena. It is a curious interlude in his life, and one full of dramatic possibilities (not to mention real life events that, in all honesty, you couldn’t make up!). After that I have in mind another series of books set in Renaissance Florence. By the time I’ve done all that, no doubt a few other ideas will have occurred to me!
How do you react to seeing a new review for your book?
It depends on the review. We all like positive feedback, so an approving review is affirming. But even positive reviews sometimes have little nuggets of criticism that can be a bit jarring when you first see them. I try and take such comments as feedback, unless they are plain silly, in which case I ignore them!
FIND ANTHONY’S BOOK ON AMAZON
Dec 23, 2024 | Editorial reviews, Interviews
Today, we’re talking with Dana Klisanin about her book, Norbu’s Secret
Tell us something unexpected about yourself!
Believe it or not, most of my best story ideas come from my dreams! I like to think of my brain as a 24-hour creativity machine that even works while I’m asleep. Whether it’s through Tibetan dream traveling or simply from dreams I remember, my nighttime adventures spark a lot of what ends up in Chronicles of G.A.I.A. It’s like getting to preview another world while I sleep, and then bringing that magic to life for readers.
Why do you write?
Why do people play music, sing, or dance? I write for the same reason—writing is a soul language. Through my words, I hope to inspire others. With my young adult books, I aim to spark a love for the planet and motivate readers to take action to protect our environment. Writing gives me a way to connect and share dreams and ideas that I hope can make a difference.
Where did you get the inspiration for your current book?
My inspiration came years ago, when I worked with the nonprofit Pachamama Alliance and learned about the Achuar people of the Ecuadorian rainforest. Known as the ‘dream people,’ they let their dreams guide their daily lives in ways that are both mystical and deeply practical. I wanted to create a story that would introduce readers to their culture and their role as protectors of the rainforest. Their message of interdependence and respect for nature is crucial for our planet’s long-term survival, and I hope readers feel inspired by their wisdom as much as I have.
What do you enjoy the most about your genre?
I love writing sci-fi and fantasy because it gives me the freedom to let my imagination run wild. There are no limits—anything I dream can become part of the story. Through these genres, I can explore big questions and create new worlds that inspire readers to see our own world with fresh eyes. It’s exhilarating to dive into places where magic, technology, and nature intertwine, and where anything feels possible.
How would you describe your writing process?
My writing process is a mix of curiosity, wonder, and a touch of dream-driven magic. I often start by asking my characters questions, letting their answers guide me deeper into the story, and I allow ideas from my dreams to spark new paths. Mornings are my favorite writing time—I begin at my desk, which has magical-looking patterns carved into the front, almost like a portal to other worlds. My laptop may be several years past its prime, but it’s still my gateway to adventure. Tea, almonds, and figs are always nearby, fueling my imagination, and my dog is my faithful timekeeper, reminding me to take breaks for a walk when I’ve lost track of time.
What do you think authors have to gain from participating in social media?
Social media offers authors a powerful way to connect directly with readers, fellow writers, and the larger literary community. It’s a space where we can share our ideas, inspirations, and works-in-progress, creating a sense of anticipation and building an audience even before a book is published. It’s also invaluable for discovering what resonates with readers, receiving feedback, and gathering inspiration from conversations and trends. Beyond promotion, social media allows authors to be part of a dynamic community, which can be energizing and motivating. For me, it’s about more than marketing—it’s about building relationships and sharing a love for stories.
What advice would you have for other writers?
My advice to writers is this: think like molasses. Writing takes patience and persistence. Set aside time each day to write and stick with it. Once the book is written, remember that the editing and publishing process can be slow, and finding the right readers or getting reviews can take time and effort. Write because you love it—those hours, days, and years of creativity are yours, no matter what. Don’t let the public’s reception affect your joy in writing. And if molasses isn’t your thing, think like honey! Embrace the sweetness and let the journey unfold in its own time.
How do you select your books’ titles and covers?
I’m lucky to have a super creative and supportive family when it comes to selecting titles and covers! My sister, Melisca Klisanin, has illustrated two of my books, and we work closely to bring the story’s spirit to life. Once we have a few options, we gather input from other family members—usually over a lively dinner where we debate the pros and cons. Afterwards, my publisher and her team gave valuable feedback, and together, we made the final decision. It’s a collaborative, enjoyable process that makes each book feel even more special.
What’s your next step?
My next step is continuing the adventure with book three in the Chronicles of G.A.I.A. series. I’m excited to dive deeper into the characters’ journeys and explore new challenges they’ll face. There are a few surprises and twists that I think readers will love, and I can’t wait to share what’s next for Lexa and her friends!
What book do you wish you’d written?
It’s hard to choose just one because I love books across so many genres and age ranges! But if I had to pick for children’s literature, two come to mind: “Tuck Everlasting” and “The Golden Compass”. Each of these books invites readers to explore deep questions about life, courage, and the nature of the world—qualities I hope to bring into my own writing.
FIND DANA’S BOOK ON AMAZON
