Book Review #Murder on the Italian Riviera #T. A. Williams #Standalone Seventh book in the Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mystery series #Publisher: Boldwood Books #Book Tour

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW 

In T.A. Williams' latest installment of the Armstrong and Oscar cozy mystery series, "Murder on the Italian Riviera," readers are transported to the stunning landscapes of Tuscany, where the allure of paradise is tainted by a dark mystery.

Private investigator Dan Armstrong, accustomed to navigating the shadows of criminality, is thrust into an unexpected alliance with Bianca Moretti, an enigmatic woman from his past. Despite their complicated history—Dan once played a role in Bianca's imprisonment—he finds himself drawn to her intelligence and beauty.

Bianca solicits Dan's help in unraveling the mystery surrounding a suspicious death at her father's lavish retreat on the idyllic Italian Riviera. While authorities dismiss the incident as accidental, Bianca remains adamant that foul play is involved. With his expertise and determination, Dan agrees to assist, but harbors doubts about Bianca's complete transparency.

As Dan delves deeper into the investigation, he encounters an unforeseen obstacle—the retreat is a nudist haven, where guests wander freely sans clothing. Undeterred by the unconventional surroundings, Dan presses on, uncovering a labyrinth of secrets and deceit.

However, the path to truth proves perilous as Dan grapples with the challenges of his own vulnerabilities and the mischievous antics of his loyal canine companion, Oscar. With time running out, Dan must race against the clock to untangle the web of lies before Oscar's antics disrupt the delicate balance of the investigation.

"Murder on the Italian Riviera" is a gripping tale of redemption, trust, and unmasking the naked truth against the backdrop of Tuscany's breathtaking vistas. Will Dan Armstrong succeed in exposing the hidden truths of paradise, or will the allure of the Italian Riviera remain shrouded in darkness?

Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood books for an advance copy for my honest review

BOOK DESCRIPTION

A brand-new cozy crime series set in gorgeous Tuscany...It's murder in paradise!

An ex-con…

Private investigator Dan Armstrong is no stranger to working with criminals, but when he’s approached for help by Bianca Moretti, he’s on high alert. Bianca is intelligent and beautiful, and Dan likes her, but he also once sent her to prison…

A suspicious death…

Bianca explains that a guest has been found dead at her father’s luxurious and private retreat on the beautiful Italian Riviera. The police are sure the death is accidental, but Bianca is convinced the man’s been murdered. Dan’s sure he can get to the bottom of things…as long as Bianca is telling him the whole truth.

A very revealing case!

But when Dan arrives at the resort, he's in for a shock. He finds that the place is a naturist retreat, and everybody is walking around stark naked! Dan is determined to discover the truth, but this is going to mean revealing a whole lot more of himself than he expected.

Can Dan sniff out the truth about this case before Oscar's cold wet nose causes havoc?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

T A Williams

I write under the androgynous name T A Williams because 65% of books are read by women. In my first book one of the (female) characters suggests the imbalance is due to the fact that men spend too much time getting drunk and watching football. I couldn't possibly comment. Ask my wife...

I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely writing romance and whodunnits. Romantic comedies are what we all need from time to time. Life isn’t always very fair. It isn’t always a lot of fun, but when it is, we need to embrace it. Murder mystery is all very well, but it needs to put a smile on your face, so that's why I like to inject some humour. I'm having a lot of fun writing the Armstrong and Oscar cozy mystery series set in sunny Italy. They are all standalone books but if you really want to do it properly, start with the first one in the series, Murder in Tuscany. If my books can whisk you away to gorgeous locations, put a smile on your face and maybe give your heartstrings a tug, then I know I’ve done my job.

I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in many of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.

I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. However, underneath this bald, wrinkly exterior, there beats the heart of a youngster. My wife is convinced I will never grow up. I hope she's right.

Follow T A Williams

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrevorWilliamsBooks/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TAWilliamsBooks

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/TAWilliamsNews

Genre: Cozy Mystery

Tour Dates: 2nd - 8th May 2024

Publication Date: 2nd May 2024

Publisher: Boldwood Books

BOOK REVIEW #A DUKE OF ONES'S OWN #EMMA ORCHARD #HISTORICAL FICTION ROMANCE #BOOK TOUR #BOLDWOOD BOOKS PUBLISHERS #RACHEL'S RANDOM RESOURCES

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Emma Orchard's "A Duke of One's Own" sweeps readers back to the summer of 1816, where Lady Georgiana Pendlebury, a spirited rebel, finds herself ensnared in a web of scandal and romance.

Georgiana is no stranger to defying the constraints of polite society, but when a seemingly innocent invitation leads her to a clandestine party, she's thrust into a world more scandalous than she ever imagined. It's there that she encounters a mysterious stranger whose unexpected assistance sets off a chain of events that will change her life forever.

Later, as Georgiana attends a house party at an infamous castle in Yorkshire, she discovers that the Duke of Northriding, notorious for his rakish reputation, is none other than the stranger who came to her aid. Despite her initial intentions of attending the gathering merely for entertainment, Georgiana finds herself drawn to the enigmatic Duke in ways she never anticipated.

As Georgiana and Gabriel navigate the complexities of their budding relationship amidst the scheming of other guests and the looming threat of scandal, they must confront their own desires and fears. Can they overcome the obstacles standing in their way, or are they destined to be torn apart by society's expectations?

Orchard weaves a captivating tale of forbidden love and redemption, set against the backdrop of Regency England. Her richly detailed prose brings the era to life, immersing readers in a world of opulent balls, whispered secrets, and simmering passion. From the sparkling banter between Georgiana and Gabriel to the palpable chemistry that ignites between them, Orchard crafts a romance that is as tender as it is passionate.

"A Duke of One's Own" is a delightful blend of humor, intrigue, and heart-stirring romance that will enchant fans of historical fiction. Orchard's vivid characters and evocative storytelling make for an irresistible read that will leave readers eagerly anticipating her next literary escapade. With its engaging plot and unforgettable characters, "A Duke of One's Own" is a must-read for anyone seeking a captivating tale of love and scandal in the Regency era.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Summer, 1816. A notorious rebel is about to meet her match...

Lady Georgiana Pendlebury is no stranger to breaking the rules of polite society. But when a so-called ‘friend’ invites her to a clandestine party, Georgiana is shocked to discover the event is more scandalous than even she could have imagined. So when a mysterious stranger offers help, she accepts, not realising their encounter will turn her life upside down.

Later that summer, Georgiana is invited to attend a house party at an infamous castle in Yorkshire. The gathering is a loosely veiled effort to arrange a marriage for the Duke of Northriding, who desperately needs an heir. Duke Gabriel Mauleverer has a terrible reputation as a rake, and Georgiana is happy to be a guest purely for the entertainment, but upon arrival, she is shocked to discover that the Duke is none other than the stranger who rescued her weeks earlier.

As the other ladies vie for the Duke’s attention, Georgiana is desperate to avoid their shocking secret getting out. But she finds herself caught, unable to avoid Gabriel’s gaze. Are they a threat to each other? Or could they be the answer to each other’s greatest desires?

                                       Social Media Links –  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555554601035

Twitter: https://twitter.com/EmmaOrchardB

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emmaorchardbooks/

                                            ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Emma Orchard

Emma Orchard grew up in Salford and was given tickets to the grown-up library at the age of 11 because she’d read all the children’s books and the librarians were sick of the sight of her. She became obsessed with Georgette Heyer and hasn’t stopped reading her novels since. She studied English Literature at university and went on to work at Mills & Boon and behind the scenes in television and in publishing.

Emma’s first two Regency romances - The Second Lady Silverwood and The Runaway Heiress - were published in 2023. A Duke of One’s Own is published on 22nd April 2024, and What the Lady Wants follows in September.

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Boldwood Books (22 April 2024)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 304 pages

Book Review #The Unspeakable Acts of Zina Pavlou #Head of Zeus -- an Aries Book Publisher #Crime Novel #Eleni Kyriacou

 MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

"The Unspeakable Acts of Zina Pavlou" is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of justice, identity, and the power of communication. Set in 1954 London, the story follows Zina Pavlou, a Cypriot grandmother accused of a heinous crime she cannot defend herself against due to language barriers. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Eva Georgiou, a Greek interpreter who becomes deeply involved in Zina's case, blurring the lines between translator and advocate.

Eleni Kyriacou masterfully weaves together themes of immigration, cultural divides, and the search for truth in a compelling and suspenseful manner. The characters are richly developed, each grappling with their own struggles and motivations, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. As the mystery surrounding Zina's innocence or guilt unravels, readers are kept on the edge of their seats, questioning their own perceptions of justice and morality.

Overall, "The Unspeakable Acts of Zina Pavlou" is a must-read for fans of true crime-inspired fiction and those who appreciate a well-crafted story that challenges societal norms. Kyriacou's writing is both haunting and evocative, leaving a lasting impact on readers long after the final page is turned.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

*Selected for BBC 2 Between the Covers Book Club 2023**

'Tense. Moving. Morally complex. Zina Pavlou is wholly unforgettable.' RACHEL RHYS

'Impressive... worthy of Sarah Waters' THE TIMES

THEY HAVE TOLD SO MANY LIES ABOUT ME.

London, 1954. Zina Pavlou, a Cypriot grandmother, waits quietly in the custody of the Metropolitan police. She can't speak their language, but she understands what their wary looks mean: she has been accused of the brutal murder of her daughter-in-law.

Eva Georgiou, Greek interpreter for the Met, knows how it feels to be voiceless as an immigrant woman. While she works as Zina's translator, her obsession with the case deepens, and so too does her bond with the accused murderer.

Zina can't speak for herself. She can't clear her own name. All she can do is wait for the world to decide...

IS SHE A VICTIM? OR IS SHE A KILLER?

Publisher ‏ : ‎ Head of Zeus -- an Aries Book; 1st edition (November 9, 2023)

Publication date ‏ : ‎ November 9, 2023

Language ‏ : ‎ English

Pages : 404

Book Review #Invitation to Italy #Victoria Springfield #Escapist Romance #Orion Fiction Publisher #Rachel's Random Resources #Book Tour

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Invitation to Italy by Victoria Springfield is a heartwarming novel that takes readers on a journey to the beautiful Italian island of Procida. The story follows Abi, who is devastated when her ex-husband takes their daughter to spend the summer with his new fiancée in Italy. Encouraged by her friend, Abi decides to book a holiday at the Hotel Paradiso, where she finally meets the woman she has been avoiding for so long. The strained relationship between Abi and Marisa is put to the test during the summer, as they navigate their feelings and differences.

At the same time, we meet Loretta, a former swimming sensation who now runs the Hotel Paradiso. When an old friend comes to stay, Loretta is forced to confront her past and the fears that have held her back for so long. As she opens her heart, she discovers that things may not be as they seem with Salvo.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading Invitation to Italy. The author does a fantastic job of transporting readers to the picturesque setting of Procida, and the descriptions of the island are vivid and enchanting. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and I found myself rooting for both Abi and Loretta as they navigate their personal challenges and relationships.

Overall, Invitation to Italy is a delightful summer read that will leave you yearning for a vacation in the Italian sun. Whether you are looking for a light and enjoyable read or a story about love, friendship, and second chances, this book has something for everyone. I highly recommend picking up a copy and taking a trip to Italy with Victoria Springfield.

BOOK DESCRIPTION 

Abi is distraught when her ex-husband Alex takes their twelve-year-old daughter, Chloe to spend the summer with his glamorous fiancée Marisa and her parents at their home on the beautiful Italian island of Procida. Persuaded by her best friend to book a holiday at the island's Hotel Paradiso, Abi finally meets the woman she's been avoiding for so long. Will the two women's strained relationship survive the summer?

One-time teenage swimming sensation, Loretta, has run the Hotel Paradiso since leaving Capri broken-hearted. When childhood friend Salvo comes to stay, Loretta is forced to confront her past and the fears that have kept her away from the water for forty years. But just as she finds the courage to open her heart, she discovers all is not as it seems with Salvo...

It's a summer of new beginnings for Abi and Loretta - and one they will never forget.

Take a trip to Italy with Victoria Springfield for a summery getaway any time of the year!

About Victoria Springfield 

Victoria Springfield writes contemporary women's fiction immersed in the sights, sounds and flavours of Italy. Victoria grew up in Upminster, Essex. After many years in London, she now lives in Kent with her husband in a house by the river. She likes to write in the garden with a neighbour's cat by her feet or whilst drinking cappuccino in her favourite café. Then she types up her scribblings in silence whilst her mind drifts away to Italy.

Social Media Links

https://twitter.com/VictoriaSwrites 

Invitation to Italy by Victoria Springfield

Genre: Escapist romance Tour Dates: 18th - 24th April 2024 Publication Date: 14th March 2024 Publisher: Orion Fiction Standalone Novel Estimate Page Count: 336

#Book Review #Double Jeopardy #Stephen Penner #Inkubator Books Publishers #General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers #Book 4 of A Rain City Legal Thriller

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Due to release on April 28th 2024, Double Jeopardy by Stephen Penner offers readers a compelling dive into the dark and twisted underbelly of Rain City, where murder, lies, and corruption reign supreme. In this fourth installment of the legal thriller series featuring attorney Daniel Raine, Penner delivers a gripping narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

The story kicks off with a mysterious death in custody at the county jail, setting the stage for a high-stakes legal battle as attorney Daniel Raine takes on the case, determined to unearth the truth behind the young man's demise. As Raine delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a tangled web of deceit and betrayal, where no one is who they seem and everyone has something to hide.

Penner masterfully crafts a narrative filled with suspense and intrigue, drawing readers into a world where morality is blurred and danger lurks around every corner. The character development in Double Jeopardy is superb, with Raine and his partner Rebecca Sommers shining as complex and relatable protagonists caught in a web of corruption and deceit.

As the plot unfolds, Penner skillfully weaves together threads of suspense and drama, keeping readers guessing as secrets are revealed and alliances are tested. The pacing is tight, the tension palpable, and the stakes couldn't be higher as Raine races against time to uncover the truth and deliver justice for the fallen.

Double Jeopardy is a riveting legal thriller that will appeal to fans of the genre and beyond. With its intricate plot, well-developed characters, and heart-pounding suspense, Stephen Penner has once again proven himself as a master storyteller. Prepare to be captivated by this gripping tale of murder, lies, and corruption in Rain City.

Rating: ★★★★★

Stephen Penner has solidified his place as a talented author in the legal thriller genre with Double Jeopardy.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

Description

Murder. Lies. Corruption. Welcome to Rain City.

A young man, Michael, dies while in custody at the county jail. The authorities claim it was a heart attack.

His mom thinks it was murder.

Attorney Daniel Raine agrees to take the case, suing the jail for wrongful death. But no one will talk about what happened in Michael’s cell on that fateful night. The guards claim they saw nothing and there’s no surveillance video.

Raine starts to dig and soon discovers that the dead man wasn’t just a petty criminal. He was an informant for a narcotics detective who is trying to take down a drug cartel.

Now Raine and his erstwhile partner, Rebecca Sommers, must unravel the mystery. Did someone order Michael’s murder? And if so, was it the cartel?

Or was it one of the good guys?

Double Jeopardy – the fourth book in the brilliant legal thriller series featuring attorney Daniel Raine.

Book 4 of A Rain City Legal Thriller

Pub Date Apr 28 2024 

Inkubator Books

General Fiction (Adult) | Mystery & Thrillers

Book Review #Hard Times for the East End Library Girls #Boldwood Books Publisher #Historical Saga & Romance & Standalone Second Book in The Library Girls series #Book Tour

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Hard Times For The East End Library Girls is a captivating novel that delves into the lives of a group of young women facing challenges in post-war London. Patricia McBride skillfully weaves together a tale of friendship, resilience, and the power of community amidst adversity.

In Hard Times For The East End Library Girls, author Patricia McBride takes readers on a poignant journey through the challenges and triumphs of three resilient women in post-war London. As war encroaches on their lives, chief librarian Cordelia, along with her colleagues Mavis and Jane, face personal hardships that test their strength and perseverance.

The novel vividly depicts the impact of war on the protagonists' lives, from Cordelia's bombed flat to Jane's struggles with her injured husband. Despite the darkness that surrounds them, the bond between the three friends grows stronger as they find purpose in transforming the Silvertown library into a beacon of hope for their community.

McBride expertly portrays the camaraderie and determination of Cordelia, Mavis, and Jane, painting a vivid picture of their unwavering courage in the face of adversity. The challenges they encounter - from callous bureaucrats to crafty criminals - only serve to showcase their resilience and unwavering spirit.

Set against the backdrop of a struggling library in the East End of London, the novel follows the lives of the library girls as they navigate personal hardships and societal expectations. McBride breathes life into each character, allowing readers to connect with their struggles and triumphs.

The author's attention to historical detail brings the post-war era to vivid life, immersing readers in a world filled with both despair and hope. The bond between the library girls is heartwarming and inspiring, serving as a reminder of the strength that can be found in friendship.

Hard Times For The East End Library Girls is a poignant and beautifully written novel that will resonate with readers who enjoy stories of friendship, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. McBride's storytelling is both engaging and heartfelt, making this a must-read for fans of historical fiction.

Overall, I highly recommend Hard Times For The East End Library Girls for anyone looking for a compelling and uplifting read that celebrates the strength of women in the face of adversity. Patricia McBride has crafted a truly unforgettable story that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.

BOOK DESCRIPTION

As the war reaches London, they’ll band together…

War strikes close to home for chief librarian Cordelia when her flat is bombed, and her beloved Robert is called up and sent abroad. Fortunately, her colleagues Mavis and Jane can help see her through hard times.

The three friends find purpose in making the Silvertown library a friendly sanctuary for their deprived and devastated community. But sinister forces, from callous bureaucrats to crafty criminals, still lurk among the stacks. Worse, Jane’s soldier husband is injured and suffers both physically and mentally.

With so many struggles Cordelia and her friends might need more than books to survive war's shadow. Can they find light in the darkness?

A captivating tale of resilience and determination, perfect for fans of Lizzie Lane, Elaine Roberts and Lesley Eames.

About Patricia McBride

​

Patricia McBride is an author of heartwarming World War II sagas featuring fierce female friendships. She resides in Cambridge, England with her husband. When not writing, Patricia enjoys curling up with a cup of tea and books about strong woman in war time. Patricia's latest series follows the adventures of three librarians living and working in London's impoverished East End during the Blitz. The first book, The Library Girls of the East End, introduces posh Lady Cordelia Carmichael, bold Mavis and more timid Jane. Despite their differences, the three band together to keep their beloved library running amidst food rationing, air raids, and family troubles. And of course, romance.

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/PatriciaMcbridenews

Genre: Historical Saga

Tour Dates: 19th - 25th April 2024

Publication Date: 19th April 2024

Publisher: Boldwood Books

Standalone Second Book in The Library Girls series

Pre-Order Link - https://mybook.to/hardtimeseastendsocial

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Book Review #Murder at the Paris Fashion House: Book 1 #Women Sleuth Mysteries #A totally addictive 1920s cozy mystery (An Abigail Dixon Mystery Book 1), #Storm Publishing

 

MY THOUGHTS AND BOOK REVIEW

Due to release in May 8th 2024, "Murder at the Paris Fashion House" takes readers on a thrilling journey through the glamorous yet treacherous world of 1920s Paris. Nancy Warren weaves a captivating tale of mystery, intrigue, and high fashion, set against the backdrop of jazz-age Paris.

The story follows Abigail Dixon, a Chicago news reporter who embarks on a new adventure in Paris, hoping to make a name for herself in the bustling fashion scene. However, her dreams are shattered when she discovers her estranged stepmother dead in a Parisian fashion house, and she becomes the prime suspect in her murder.

What follows is a riveting tale of Abigail's race against time to clear her name and uncover the truth behind her stepmother's death. With the help of an eclectic cast of characters, including the debonair Inspector Henri Deschamps, the enigmatic Coco Chanel, and the young news reporter Ernest Hemingway, Abigail delves into the dark underbelly of Parisian society, where secrets lurk behind every elegant facade.

Warren skillfully transports readers to the dazzling streets of Paris, painting a vivid picture of the city's landmarks and its vibrant atmosphere. From the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower to the opulent halls of Versailles, the setting serves as a lush backdrop to the unfolding mystery.

What sets "Murder at the Paris Fashion House" apart is its delightful blend of mystery and historical fiction, infused with a touch of humor and romance. Warren's prose is elegant and engaging, keeping readers guessing until the very end. The plot is intricately crafted, with plenty of twists and turns to keep even the most seasoned mystery aficionados on their toes.

Overall, "Murder at the Paris Fashion House" is a captivating read that will transport readers to a bygone era of glamour and intrigue. With its richly drawn characters, atmospheric setting, and gripping plot, this novel is sure to delight fans of historical mysteries and cozy thrillers alike. Whether you're a fan of Agatha Christie or T E Kinsey, Nancy Warren's latest offering is not to be missed.

THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND POISOINED PEN PUBLISHERS FOR AN ADVANCE COPY FOR MY REVIEW

BOOK DESCRIPTION

A Chicago news reporter chasing her big break in jazz-age Paris, an exclusive with a renowned couture designer, and a stepmother lying dead among the silk and sequins...

Paris 1925: When news reporter Abigail Dixon trades the Chicago newsroom for the Paris fashion scene, she finds herself dazzled by the latest looks from Coco Chanel, sipping champagne at the Ritz, and interviewing a famous designer. Stepping into his luxurious atelier on Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Abigail is ready to swoon over the exquisite gowns. The last thing she expects to find is her estranged stepmother lying dead on the fitting room floor – and Abigail framed as the prime suspect.

With only her high school French to defend herself to the debonair Inspector Henri Deschamps, Abigail must use her investigative skills to unravel a tangled web of family secrets and find the real murderer if she is to clear her name.

Aided by new friends including young news reporter Ernest Hemingway, Coco Chanel and dashing Lord Frederick, Abigail explores the elegant city of lights – from the magnificent Notre-Dame to the alabaster halls of Versailles – in search of the clues that will solve this deadly mystery.

But over coffee and croissants one morning she reads a letter warning her that she is in grave danger and must leave Paris immediately.

As Abigail swaps her très dowdy two-piece for a très chic silk chemise and a sharp bob to match, can she keep her wits about her, find the cunning couture killer, and prove her innocence so she can stay in the city that’s captured her heart?

Lose yourself in the gripping pages of this captivating and witty cozy historical mystery set in 1920s Paris. Fans of Agatha Christie, T E Kinsey and Lee Strauss will be utterly charmed by Murder at the Paris Fashion House.

Author Nancy Warren

Release Date May 08, 2024

Publisher Storm Publishing