Page 57 - Reader's House magazine

NOVEL • STORY • LITERATURE ENIGMA TRACER by Charles Breakfield and Rox Burkey DECEPTION & CONSEQUENCES by Marcy Bialeschki An electrifying mix of tech intrigue, action, and sus- pense; “Enigma Tracer” captivates with compelling characters and an unpredictable plot. A delightful, witty mystery with charming charac- ters, clever twists, and timeless sleuthing—Murder On The Mesa is brilliantly captivating! Hope Brooks’ memoir, A Mother’s Survival: Finding Balance Through the Storms, is an inspiring and heartfelt account of resilience, love, and unwa- vering determination. Written with raw honesty, it takes readers through her extraordinary journey, from a childhood marred by trauma to the struggles and triumphs of building a blended family. Brooks’ story is deeply personal yet univer- sally relatable, offering insights into the myriad challenges life can throw at us — and the strength required to overcome them. She bravely recounts her experiences as a survivor of childhood abuse, the emotional turmoil of supporting a spouse with bipolar disorder, and the daunting task of raising her family after being abandoned. Her ability to rise above these hardships is both humbling and empowering. The narrative, though often laden with sorrow and strife, is ultimately uplifting. Brooks shares not only the trials of her personal life but also the challen- ges she faced as a New York City teacher, adding another layer of complexity to her tale. Her message of perseverance resonates throughout the book, inspiring her readers to keep pushing forward, no matter how dire life’s circumstances may seem. While the pacing occasionally feels uneven, the sincerity and warmth of Brooks’ voice more than compensate. Her story is a testament to the human spirit and the enduring power of hope. For those in search of a motivational and deeply moving read, Brooks’ memoir will surely leave an indelible mark. It’s a compelling reminder that, even in life’s darkest storms, balance and strength can be found. Deception & Consequences is an intriguing start to The Vengeance Series, blending romance, sus- pense, and family drama into a gripping narrative. Marcy Bialeschki crafts a story that keeps readers hooked, with its relentless pace and a heroine they can truly root for. Aria Donaldson, the bold and fiercely independ- ent protagonist, is both relatable and inspiring. Her unexpected encounter with Simon Longoria on a sun-soaked beach in St. Lucia spirals into a tale of danger, passion, and long-hidden family secrets. The novel cleverly intertwines Aria’s steamy romance with Mac Brunner—the dependable, swoon-worthy hero—with the darker elements of betrayal and vengeance lurking around every corner. Bialeschki’s ability to create vibrant characters shines throughout the book, particularly in her depic- tion of Aria’s perseverance and Mac’s unwavering devotion. The chemistry between them crackles and adds depth to a thriller-paced plot. The antagonist, Deuce Halprin, is suitably sinister, elevating the stakes and keeping the tension palpable. While Deception & Consequences delivers plenty of twists and action, it doesn’t shy away from emo- tional weight either. The themes of family loyalty, generational conflict, and self-discovery give the story layers beyond its surface thrills. That said, the occasional overly descriptive passages could slow the pace for some readers. But overall, this is a well-crafted and satisfying read that will leave fans eager to follow Aria’s journey in the next instalment. Highly recommended for those who enjoy romantic suspense with a gritty edge. EDITOR’S CHOICE MUDDY THE WATER Matt Barrows, Jessica Barrows Beebe Gripping, suspenseful, and masterfully written, ‘Muddy the Water’ captivates with its complex characters, unpredictable twists, and sharp storytell- ing. Brilliant! Muddy the Water is an exceptional debut novel from Matt Barrows and Jessica Barrows Beebe, and it certainly lives up to its accolades. Winning the Literary Global Book Award for Debut Fiction was no fluke— this gripping thriller delivers an enthralling ride from start to finish. Set against the vivid backdrop of the South Carolina coast, the story plunges into the murky waters of journalism, murder, and identity. The murder of a char- ismatic fishing captain in Massachusetts sets the stage, but the real intrigue unfolds when Ben Broome—the prime suspect—reinvents himself as a reporter for a struggling southern newspaper. The duality of Ben’s character is chilling, as he balances his charm with a dark, sinister cunning that keeps readers on edge. The narrative’s structure, told through the perspec- tives of the killer, the driven Detective Lillian Grimes, and the ambitious reporter Florence Park, adds im- pressive depth and complexity. Each character’s voice is distinct, and their motivations are expertly woven into the plot. The way the authors explore themes of identity—who we are versus who we present ourselves to be—adds a layer of psychological intrigue. Barrows and Beebe’s prose is sharp and urgent, making for a fast-paced read that brims with suspense. The twists come thick and fast, culminating in a finale that is as satisfying as it is surprising. Muddy the Water is more than just a thriller; it’s a masterfully crafted exploration of morality, ambition, and human nature. A standout debut that will leave readers eagerly anticipating what comes next from this talented duo. Highly recommended! Reader’s House II 57