Page 34 - Reader's House Magazine Issue 49

EDITOR’S CHOICE
A VERY BAD THING
by J.T. Ellison
A twisty, captivating thriller! “A Very Bad Thing” expertly unravels a murdered author’s dark secrets, keeping you guessing until the very end.
J.T. Ellison’s “A Very Bad Thing” plunges readers into the glamorous yet treacherous world of bestselling author Columbia Jones, whose life takes a deadly turn at the pin- nacle of her career. Found murdered after her latest book tour, Columbia’s seemingly perfect facade crumbles as secrets from her past begin to surface. Ellison masterfully crafts a suspenseful narrative, expertly weaving together multiple perspectives and timelines to create a complex and compelling mystery.
The story unfolds through the eyes of several key players, including Columbia herself in the days leading up to her death, her grieving daughter and publicist Darian, a dogged detective determined to uncover the truth, and an ambitious reporter hungry for a scoop. Each perspective adds a layer of intrigue, slowly peeling back the layers of Columbia’s carefully constructed image to reveal a woman haunted by past choices and entangled in a web of deceit.
Ellison excels at character development, particularly with Darian, who emerges as a strong and sympathetic protagonist. As Darian navigates her grief and shock,
she also embarks on her own investigation, determined to understand her mother’s hidden life and uncover the killer. The supporting characters, while not as fully developed, add depth and complexity to the plot, each harboring their own secrets and motivations.
While the pacing occasionally falters amidst the numerous red herrings and plot twists, the central mystery remains engaging. Ellison keeps readers guessing until the very end, expertly planting clues and misdirection. The novel’s exploration of ambition, betrayal, and the dark side of fame adds a layer of social commentary, reminding us that appearances can be deceiving. “A Very Bad Thing” is a captivating thriller that will keep you turning the pages late into the night. While seasoned mystery readers may anticipate some of the twists, the intricate plot and com- pelling characters make it a worthwhile and entertaining read.
KEEPERS
by Cheryl Burman
A beautifully written, emotionally rich tale of love, resilience, and self-discovery that captivates and inspires from start to finish.
Cheryl Burman’s “Keepers” is a masterfully written tale that immerses readers in the post-WWII struggles of Raine Merrett, a young woman navigating love, loss, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of a migrant camp in post-war Adelaide, the story captures the harsh realities of displacement and the resilience required to endure them. Burman’s vivid descriptions of the cramped Nissen huts and the unforgiving plains transport readers to a time and place where survival demanded grit and determination.
Raine’s journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. Her struggles, from dealing with her ailing father to facing the uncertainties of her marriage, are portrayed with raw emotion. The introduction of Teddy Greene, a war-torn Londoner, adds layers of com- plexity to the narrative. Their connection, born out of shared hardships, evolves into a whirlwind of passion and uncertainty, keeping readers invested in their fate.
What sets “Keepers” apart is its ability to balance historical authenticity with deeply personal storytell- ing. Burman’s characters are richly developed, each grappling with their own demons while contributing to the overarching themes of love, abandonment, and resilience. The emotional depth of the story is further enhanced by its inspiration from true events, making it all the more poignant.
The pacing is impeccable, with moments of tension and tenderness woven seamlessly throughout. Burman’s prose is both lyrical and accessible, making this a page-turner that’s hard to put down. The book’s exploration of societal expectations versus personal desires resonates deeply, offering a timeless message about the courage it takes to forge one’s own path.
“Keepers” is a beautifully crafted novel that will appeal to fans of historical and women’s fiction. It’s a story that lingers long after the final page, leaving readers eager to explore the rest of the series. Highly recommended!
THE VASSAL OF MAGIC
by C. B. Lyall
A thrilling finale that masterfully blends magic, love, and sacrifice—C.B. Lyall delivers a story that captivates and inspires.
C.B. Lyall’s “The Vassal of Magic: The Virus of Beauty Book 3” is a spellbinding conclusion to an already captivating series. This third installment masterfully weaves together themes of love, identity, and sacrifice, delivering a story that is as emotional- ly resonant as it is action-packed. Wilf Gilvary, the reluctant hero, continues to grapple with his disdain for magic while being thrust into a high-stakes battle for the survival of the Magical Realm.
Lyall’s world-building is exceptional, immersing readers in a realm teeming with ancient secrets, rival factions, and moral dilemmas. The tension between Wilf’s desire for a normal life and his growing real- ization of his magical potential is palpable, making him a deeply relatable protagonist. His relationship with Katryna adds a layer of complexity, as Wilf questions whether his feelings are genuine or the lingering effects of a love spell. This emotional conflict enriches the narrative, making the stakes feel personal and urgent.
The pacing is brisk, with each chapter unveiling new twists and challenges that keep readers on
the edge of their seats. Lyall’s prose is vivid and evocative, painting a world that feels both magical and perilously real. The climax is both satisfying and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a sense of closure while pondering the sacrifices made along the way.
“The Vassal of Magic” is a must-read for fans of fantasy and coming-of-age stories. It’s a tale of courage, love, and the power of self-discovery that lingers long after the final page.
34 II Reader’s House
NOVEL • STORY • LITERATURE