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Contributors S.L. Carpenter A lifetime Californian, Scott Carpenter lives the ordinary life of a husband and father. Humor has always played a large role in his life, and he enjoys making people smile. His stories range from the outright absurd to the deeply poignant, and his mastery of the short story format is undeniable. If asked, he'll describe himself as just another guy. His many fans will tell you that his writing paints quite a different picture.

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Ruth Lynn Ritter

Tonya Mathenia *Please note, ALL InD’tale staff are required at times to read and review books. Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission. All books and material reviewed by InD’tale have been read by the stated reviewer and are the opinions of that reader.

Kevin G. Chapman Kevin G. Chapman is an attorney specializing in labor and employment law, and an independent author from New Jersey. In 2021, Kevin finished the first five books in the Mike Stoneman Thriller series. His next novel, The Other Murder, will be published in early 2024.

Tamara Cribley Tamara Cribley is a self-professed formatting junkie who believes beautiful books don't happen by chance. Having worked as a Commercial Photographer, Graphic Artist, and Art Director, Tamara’s unique skills enable her to put together classy and professional books that keep the reader focused on the story.

Peggy Jaegger I’m a contemporary romance writer who writes Rom Coms about strong women, the families who support them, and the men who can’t live without them. If I can make you cry on one page and bring you out of tears rolling with laughter the next, I’ve done my job as a writer!Family and food play huge roles in my stories because I believe there is nothing that holds a family structure together like sharing a meal… or two… or ten. Dotted with humor and characters that are as real as they are loving, I bring all topics of daily life into my stories: life, death, sibling rivalry, illness and the desire for everyone to find their own happily ever after. Growing up the only child of divorced parents I longed for sisters, brothers, and a family that vowed to stick together no matter what came their way. Through my books, I’ve created the families I wanted as that lonely child. www.indtale.com

Personal Book Reviews… The Joy and Bane of Every Author’s Life

Reviews 75 Anthologies 75 Audiobooks 65 Contemporary 57 Historical 72 Inspirational 74 LGBTQ+ 73 Mystery 68 Paranormal

69 Suspense/Thriller 72 Time Travel 69 Urban Fantasy 69 Young Adult

Award Winning Author Peggy Jaeger

21 39 7 Suggestions to New, Aspiring Writers Breakfield and Burkey

Rising Star: Sharon Michalove InD'tale

30 Photo by Ioann-Mark Kuznietsov on Unsplash

Contents

Let's Get Spooky Scott Carpenter

Ghost Creek

Romatic Suspense at its Finest!

InD'tale Serial

Tee O'Fallon

Kevin G. Chapman

InD'tale

from the

Hello, Readers! And welcome back to InD’tale!

Editor

e hope you all had a wonderful summer, whatever you got up to. Here at InD’tale, we were extremely

busy

reconfiguring,

restructuring, refining, redesigning etc. etc. etc. in order to bring you a refreshed version of the magazine we all know and love. Fall has just begun, which means we’re extra excited to be able to curl up with a good book (like we need an excuse for that!) fluffy blankets, fuzzy socks, and cozy sweaters… although the weather seems to have missed that memo, at least where we are. The ushering in of (hopefully) cooler weather, all things spooky, and pumpkin spice everything,

to celebrate so many wonderful stories and the

we’re excited to begin a new season at InD’tale.

incredibly talented authors who penned them.

After twelve incredible years, our beloved founder,

As always, we’re grateful to the authors who

TJ Mackay, has decided to take a step back and

trust us with their book babies. We know how

work more behind the scenes, which will give her

scary it can be to send a new book out into the

more time to travel and be with her family, leaving

world, and we love being a part of that process.

me with some huge shoes to fill – I’m not saying she

We love our readers and subscribers, and we hope

has big feet, ya know, but she’s made such a huge

you’ll all enjoy our updated magazine.

impact in so many ways, and for so many people,

And now, in the words of whoever-it-was that

that I have a lot to live up to! I’m going to be honest,

said it, Happy Fall, y’all! We’re wishing you good

it’s a scary – yet exciting – position to be in!

books, the fluffiest of blankets, and a wonder-

Over the next few months, we will be trying some new things, adding some things to have more interaction with you all, and hopefully making your experiences with us even more fun and enjoyable than ever before. Not to mention that our RONE Awards will be announced very soon, and that is something we always love as we get

ful season! Until next month, Happy Reading!

Katy

The new (and more than slightly terrified) Editor in Chief

www.indtale.com

ROMATIC SUSPENSE AT ITS FINEST!

Anyone learning of author Tee O’Fallon’s background in law enforcement, at both the local and federal level, would expect her to be incredibly interesting to talk to - and she is that, and so much more! Ms. O’Fallon not only has fascinating stories to share, she’s also got a wonderful sense of humor, loves cooking and food, and is, herself, a bookworm. Dive into this feature article to get to know the lady behind the wonderful and addicting Blue and Gold, Federal K-9, and K-9 Special Ops series

InD’Tale Magazine

InD: Thank you for a taking the time out of your InD: It’s funny and kind of sad because so many day to talk to us. We’re excited to have you be a

other parts of the state have so many interesting

part of our next issue.

things to see and do as well, but the focus always

TOF: Thank you for the invitation.

goes back to Manhattan! Did you have brothers and sisters growing up?

InD: So interviewing authors is a pretty new thing TOF: I did. I have an older brother who lives in for me, but I think it’s so much fun to get to know authors and who they are behind the pages. We get to

Maryland. We stay in touch.

see the finished book, but we very rarely get to see the

InD: What’s your personality like, do you think,

person who wrote it, so being able to talk to you and

compared to your brother?

find out who you are, your experiences, where your inspiration comes from… it makes you more real,

TOF: I was very different from my brother – still

and it’s really nice to know a little bit about who you

am. He’s pretty quiet, and yet, when he has an

are outside of the fabulous books you write. So tell us

opinion, he’ll let you know! I’m not really outspo-

a little bit about yourself. Where did you grow up?

ken, I’ve just learned to come off that way. I think

TOF: I grew up in a suburb of New York. After that

it comes from public speaking. I had to do it for the job, giving presentations. And then as an author, I

I moved to New Jersey for about seven years, then

started doing seminars and book conferences, so

out to Colorado for about five years, and now I’m

I got more experience, but it’s not something that

back in New York.

comes naturally to me.

InD: Wow, what is it about New York that keeps InD: Me neither. The first time I had to interview pulling you back do you think? Is it just a case of

an author I was terrified! I mean I love talking to

“that’s home”?

people about books, but I think the hard part is

TOF: It’s home. I came back here from Colorado to be with my mom and help her.

InD: I grew up in the UK, and I remember the first thing we all thought of when we heard New York was “oh, Manhattan!” and we’d forget there’s a whole state outside of that one massive city.

trying not to come across as a crazy, geeky fan – especially when it’s an author whose books you love.

TOF: You know though, we all come across as geeks. We’re dorks! [both laughing]

InD: Were you a big reader when you were a kid? TOF: I was. I remember in elementary school,

TOF: I once saw a map of the country, and Man-

there was a book publication that came out. I forget

hattan took up the biggest part of the map, while

what it was called; maybe RSA, and all the kids got

the rest of the country was tiny. The main focus of

to take this form home and check off all the books

the country always seems to be on Manhattan.

we wanted – then our parents had to pony up a

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check. My stack was always one of the top three biggest stacks in the classroom, so I guess that’s where it started for me.

InD: And you still like reading now – when you have time?

InD: Oh gosh, I love

TOF: I do! The problem though, is time! I work

Nancy Drew; I had that

during the day, and then unfortunately what hap-

whole series. And then

pens is – maybe this sounds familiar to you – I’ll go

there was an author

to bed and start reading, and get maybe five pages

back in the UK called Enid Blyton.

into the book, then my eyes start closing! It’s a

I’ve never seen her books here in the States, but

little embarrassing, but lately I haven’t even really

she had multiple series, and my favorite was

read that much. There are so many amazing books

called The Famous Five, which she wrote back

out there, and so little time!

in, I think, the 1950s – maybe even earlier. It was

InD: Oh yes! It does get frustrating. I mean you

about four cousins and their dog, always getting into mischief, and there was always a mystery

work in the book world, whether that’s writing,

they managed to solve. So a lot of the books I read

editing, or working at a magazine that’s all about

when I was younger had some sort of mystery or

books, and you still enjoy reading, but the more

shenanigans go. Even even now, if I had to pick

involved you get in the book world, the less time

just one genre, I probably read Romantic Sus-

you have to read!

pense the most.

TOF: Sad, but true.

TOF: Mine too. You sound like me. You need a

InD: What was your favorite kind of story when you were a kid?

TOF: Probably books about horses. Well, really

little something else going on in the background of a romance novel, something to keep you going.

InD: Yeah, it’s definitely something that gets you hooked in. The relationship is awesome to

anything about animals. My favorite series back

see, but when there’s that mystery or a threat,

then was Walter Farley’s Black Stallion series. I

or just something nefarious in there, it just adds

think they made one or two movies out of them. I

that extra hook into you. You’re fabulous at doing

still have those hard copy books down in my base-

that by the way. Every book of yours I’ve ever

ment. I should probably re-read them; it’s been a

read… which is all of them… have that wonderful

while. Did you have a favorite series growing up?

balance of plenty of relationship on the page, yet also plenty of whatever the mystery or threat is, whatever is going on at the time. Like with your

www.indtale.com

newest one, “‘Burning Justice". It had that almost

Why would you be rooting for her to get together

enemies-to-lovers sort of thing between the two

with this awesome guy? ‘Cause you know if you

main characters, but then they also had that

don’t like her, you’d be thinking more like, “Nah,

really interesting case they were working on.

she doesn’t deserve him!” [both laughing]

TOF: Well thank you for reading them.

InD: I totally agree! And then you add in this

InD: Your characters are always so relatable,

page-turning mystery that adds so much tension to the story. You have a wonderful talent with this

and very dynamic. They’re the kind of people you

– that tension building because you know some-

could see yourself hanging out and having a con-

thing bad is going to happen, and then the two

versation with, or thinking “I could be friends

main characters wind up in a situation that seems

with him/her.”

impossible to get out of, yet you always find a way!

TOF: I think that if you can’t be friends with the TOF: “Burning Justice” (Book 2 in the K-9 Special heroine, why would you want to read about her?

Ops series) is interesting because it’s probably my

most plot-heavy book. I think the plot was a more

InD: Do you have to sit down and talk to someone

involved than I usually go, and it wasn’t that I planned

to help talk you through it? Or do you just sit there

it that way. The story dictates where I go with it.

and read through, or doodle on Post-Its, some-

InD: So are you a plotter, a pantser, or some mix of the two?

TOF: I definitely outline. I hate getting somewhere and not knowing where I’m going, so I

thing like that, to help get you out of the hole?

TOF: Sometimes I’ll pour a cup of coffee and literally walk around the room with it. It helps to pace, so I do it and I talk out loud to myself, thinking, “okay this is happening here, and that’s happen-

usually write a pretty extensive

ing here, why can’t I get passed step

outline, somewhere between 50

two?” Sometimes it helps when I’m

and 75 pages, and that helps keep

driving, sometimes working out

me on track. But at the same time,

or running… For whatever reason,

sometimes I get somewhere and

those activities help get my brain

realize oh there’s a problem, or this

thinking about the problematic

isn’t going to work, or wow, I’ve got

issue. And that, very often, helps

an even better idea, or I come up

me move past that brick wall I can’t

with something extra to throw in

get over.

between two chapters. The good stuff doesn’t always come to you

InD: So what’s weirdest place

when you’re outlining. I think as an

you’ve ever had that stroke of

author, you would be doing yourself

lightning, “oh that’s what I can do!”

a disservice if you didn’t at least

I have a friend who was making

allow for the possibility of making some changes

toffee or something like that, it was very temper-

along the way.

ature sensitive, and she got that “aha!” idea, went

InD: Have you ever run across times or places where your characters just don’t cooperate with where you thought the story should go and you’ve

to write it down and totally forgot something was on the stove. She wound up losing her whole pot to that idea! [both laughing]

had to change a lot of it because it’s just not work-

TOF: I did that once with a wine reduction sauce!

ing with how your characters have developed?

There was something on the TV and my boyfriend

TOF: Once in a while I get stuck, and I struggle to

called me in to see it. I got so captivated by it… and then I started to smell something. It was the wine

move on to the next chapter because I just don’t like

burning. So yeah, that happens! I would say a book I

the way the chapter I just wrote is working. Like

wrote – I won’t say which one – someone suggested

maybe there’s not enough of a connection between

that the who-did-it was a little too obvious and

the characters. Sometimes, I have to sit back and

suggested I do something else. I had no idea who

figure out how to dig myself out of a hole.

else to make the bad guy. I started talking with my

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editor, and as we were discussing

work reports, you can write. You

it, like you said, a lightbulb went

have so many ideas, why don’t

on, and I realized oh, I’ve got it! It

you just write your own book?”

didn’t take much rewriting, and

He bought me this nice little

it was the easiest villain change

leather-bound

I’ve ever had to do. And I can tell

blank pages. So now we’re on the

from the reviews of that particu-

beach with murder mysteries

lar book that everyone else who

and this notebook in hand, and

read it was pleasantly surprised.

I start brainstorming with him.

InD:

notebook

with

We came up with some ideas and Oh, now everyone is

started hand-writing them, (we

curious as to what book! [both

didn’t have a laptop at the beach)

laughing] Your author bio says you worked in

and I started outlining a book. I did write this

law enforcement for over 20 years. Thank you

book… but it has yet to be published. I think it’s a

for serving that way; I can’t imagine it was easy.

great story, so I’ve made it part of a new series that

What made you turn to writing after working in

I hope to publish one day.

that field? It seems the polar opposite thing to do.

TOF: Like you, I gravitated from straight-up romance to other genres. For a while it seemed Historicals were the only thing out there, then Contemporaries came along, and then the entrance of

InD: That’s awesome! Will it involve law enforcement in any way?

TOF: Yes. And that’s how I got started writing!

Romantic Suspense. Every year, my boyfriend and

InD: That’s a great beginning. So as you worked

I would go down to the Carolinas and spend the

in law enforcement, do you ever pull snippets

week on the beach. We found a great book store,

from some of the real-life cases you worked, that

and one of the first things we’d do is go down to

you can work into your stories?

the book store, grab some books, then go sit on the beach and read.

InD: That sounds like the perfect vacation! TOF: It was! I remember one year, reading a

TOF: Sure. Sometimes they’re little investigative tools, things I used on the job. Sometimes I’ve met a person who I thought was really interesting, so they wound up in a book. Or maybe they were a jerk, to put it kindly, and I made that person the

Romantic Suspense by a well-known author – who

evil supervisor. In Federal K-9 book 7 (Above ’N’

shall remain nameless – a big name. I was so dis-

Beyond), which is coming out this month, there’s

appointed with this book I literally threw it into

a case I reference that was an actual case that hap-

the sand. It was definitely a DNF for me. We went

pened. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but

back to the bookstore and I got a different book. My

you’ll know it because I give credit for it in the

boyfriend said to me, “You know, Tee, I’ve read your

acknowledgements.

12 InD’Tale Magazine

InD: I can’t wait to read it! Now, your first pub-

who the heroine is, and what she becomes. And I

lished series, your Blue & Gold series, takes place

love dogs so much, even though the NYPD Blue &

in New York. Tell me about it.

Gold series isn’t a K-9 series, there’s definitely a lot

TOF: I came up with the storyline first, then I

of doggage on the pages!

thought, “What kind of law enforcement officer

InD: What made you switch from the NYPD

would be undercover for six months?" Unless you’re

level of law enforcement to the Federal level? Was

working some sort of organized crime case, it’s pretty

it just that your Blue & Gold trilogy had come to

rare for a federal agent to be undercover for that long.

an end and it seemed like a natural progression?

It doesn’t happen often, so I decided the heroine

Or was there something else that made you want

should be a New York City police officer for that series.

to switch it up?

InD: Where did you get your inspiration for TOF: I have to give credit to my editor at the time, that one?

TOF: You know, I don’t even remember! I always loved to cook, so that figures into the story about

Karen Grove. I got to the end of my first contract with the last book in the Blue & Gold series, and she said, “You know, Tee, I see you’re posting a lot about your dogs on social media. Have you ever

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six or seven different agencies. But I never worked for the CIA, and I never worked with a CIA agent, so I definitely needed to do some research there.

InD: Did you ever have to work with a K-9 or partner with a K-9 officer on any of your cases?

TOF: I did work on some drug cases where packages were opened and containers were sniffed by dogs. We did a roadblock on the border at Niagara Falls, and I was working with a state police officer. He pulled over a truck, and called in a dog because the back of the container was full of drums. The dog hopped up into the container and started walking all over the tops of the drums like it was just a walk in the park! Toward the end of my career I worked at JFK airport, and there were dogs around all of the time. They were mostly explosives detection dogs. thought about writing a K-9 series?” And I said “No, the thought never even crossed my mind!” [laugh-

InD: The K-9s and their handlers in your sto-

ing] So that’s how it all came to be, then she and I

ries always manage to add a little bit of humor. I

worked together to come up with a theme for the

mean when they’re working they’re completely

series, and we decided on federal K-9s, which made

focused and on point, they don’t mess around, yet

sense since that was my background, too.

they always manage to add some humor. Did you

InD: And so you were able to pull on a lot of your own experiences from maybe working with K-9s,

find that happening in real life at all with the K-9 units you’ve been around?

or how all of the different branches of federal law

TOF: Somewhat, yes. I do take a little bit of lit-

enforcement work together to make things very

erary license to add some levity to my stories in

realistic.

places, because even though I’m writing serious

TOF: Yes, in the federal world, the protocols are

plots, I can’t help but inject a little humor in there.

pretty much the same. There are rules of federal

InD: And I imagine your own dogs give you some

criminal procedure, and no matter what agency you

inspiration for that!

work for, those rules are the same, and we all report to the US Attorney’s Office in whatever district we

TOF: Oh, yes. They’re total hams! I think every-

work in. It was easy for me to get the protocols and

one who has a dog will experience something

tactics accurate even though I was writing about

humorous every single day!

14 InD’Tale Magazine

InD: I have to agree! Our dog is the funniest TOF: They look bigger because of their hair. My thing, and we have hardwood floors so he’s always

male is probably about 56 pounds, and he’s on the

sliding everywhere which is hilarious.

cover of Honor ’N’ Duty (Federal K-9 Book 6).

TOF: Does he sleep in your bed too?

InD: Oh that’s a beautiful dog! I’ve always loved

InD: Oh heck no! He tried the first night we had him, and I was eight and half months pregnant at the

the dogs on your covers. They are very handsome, almost regal looking dogs.

time, and I was definitely “no no no!”. He got down

TOF: That’s not an accident! My publisher is

and gave me the saddest eyes! I’ve never felt so bad

Entangled Publishing, and they send out a form to

for kicking a dog out of bed in my life! [both laughing]

the author asking for input on the cover. They even

TOF: They really know how to play on our emotions. InD: So true! What kind of dogs do you have right now?

TOF: I have two Belgian sheepdogs. InD: Those are pretty big dogs, aren’t they?

suggest that if you have links to specific things you want on a cover, to send them in. If it works, they’ll use it. I can usually find a dog that has the right look, meaning it’s a beautiful dog, he/she has upright ears, it has the intensity I’m going for. Entangled has published most of the dog photos I’ve selected for the covers.

InD: Oh that’s awesome! Outside of your Blue & Gold series, I’ll always expect to see a dog on your covers – especially as they’re almost the third starring role in each story! I mean in all of your stories there’s the hero and the heroine, and then there’s the dog. Whatever you story is, the dog is always so important!

TOF: What did you think about the fourth character in Burning Justice?

InD: [laughing] Are we talking about the **spoiler alert**!! (Go and read the book. It’s fabulous!)

TOF: Yes, that one! InD: I laughed so much when I read that! My husband actually asked me what I was laughing at and I explained it was your book, and so-and-so had a

InD’Tale Magazine

pet, and he didn’t understand why it was funny… and then I told him the name for this pet and he laughed as well!

TOF: That was another thing that popped into my head while I was writing “Burning Justice” – the name of this pet!

InD: It’s so comical because you can’t help but picture this type of pet in your head and add in the name… and well, it’s just so funny it can’t help but make you laugh. Out of all the characters you’ve written, and you’ve got quite an amount now when you count all of your series, have you got a favorite?

TOF: That’s really hard to pick! I guess because there are favorite things for me in each of the sto-

InD: Do you ever put parts of yourself into any of your characters? Any particular trait or hobby, anything like that?

ries. “Burnout” (NYPD Blue & Gold Book 1) was my

TOF: I think there’s probably a little part of me

first published book and will always be the book of

in all my books, even if it’s just one little snippet.

my heart. It started my career, and in that book, the

There’s probably more of me in “Burnout” than any

dog was based on my female Belgian Sheepdog, the

of the others, because it was my first book. How-

first one I’d ever had. That’s another reason that

ever, in “Lock ’N’ Load” (Federal K-9 Book 1), Trista,

book is the book of my heart. I also love the inter-

the heroine, is completely different from me. She’s

play, the banter, between the hero and heroine

a total computer geek, and she doesn’t have any

(Mike and Cassie). There’s a bit of that in “Armed

real awareness of her sexuality, her inner beauty,

’N’ Ready” (Federal K-9 Book 2) as well as others

or her inner strengths.

I’ve written. And you know, it shows up in reviews. I think readers really like that kind of back and

InD: I actually love that about Trista because

forth, push-and-pull, I love you-I hate you.

it makes her happy ending even more gratifying

InD: I think it makes it even more gratifying to

since she was so clueless as to who she was outside of the computer geek that the CIA relied on.

the reader when the characters finally get over

I think how she got pulled out of her shell by the

that will-they, won’t-they, okay I actually love

hero (Matt) and his team throughout the story is

you more than I hate you, and finally get together

so well written and honestly delightful to see.

and manage to work things out.

TOF: Exactly.

TOF: That’s why I really liked her story. He helped her see who and what she was, and who she could be.

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He saw it almost immediately, even through her dour and dowdy grey clothes and glasses, her boring shoes and tight hair bun… I liked creating a quirky heroine.

InD: What’s your favorite thing to cook? TOF: Fresh pasta.

InD: It is nice to see someone who is not your InD: Is that as hard as it looks? stereotypical heroine. I imagine that in some ways you can have more fun when you start them

TOF: No. My brother got me a gadget you insert

off a geek, or completely clueless, or very fashion-

into a KitchenAid mixer, so when you turn it on, it

inhibited, and you get them to change and see who

will turn the rollers instead of you having to crank

they are as you develop the story.

something. It’s so much easier.

TOF: She was a lot of fun to write. Her strength InD: Favorite dessert? was in her brain.

InD: Okay, I have to ask because the curiosity is

TOF: Ooh… probably key lime tart.

killing me, does “Tee” stand for something, or is it

InD: Do you bake it yourself or do you have a

a nickname?

favorite place to get it from?

TOF: Tee is basically my first initial spelled out. TOF: I bake it. I still love chocolate, but I think It’s a nickname people in the past have called me,

my tastes changed a little bit, and I started to like

so I decided that if you call me Tee, I’m probably

sweet-tart things, like lemon and raspberry.

going to turn around!

InD: Do you have a favorite time of day to write? TOF: The morning – with a big cup of coffee in hand! [both laughing]

InD: Ah, caffeine to get your juices flowing so

InD: What, do you think, is the best advice you’ve ever been given in your professional life, whether it’s before you became an author or afterwards?

TOF: My advice for aspiring authors is to join a group, like a romance writer’s chapter, somewhere you can go where there are people at your writing

you can think! Alright, let’s find out some favor-

level, below your level, and above your level. We’ve

ites! What’s your favorite food?

all been where you are, and we’ve all had someone

TOF: That’s easy, pizza. InD: What’s your favorite thing to do when you’re not reading or writing?

TOF: Probably cooking. 18

InD’Tale Magazine

who was at a higher place in their writing career who helped us. I think most of us want to pay it forward the best way we can.

InD: That’s wonderful advice, thank you for sharing it, and again, thank you for taking the time to talk to us today. It’s been a pleasure!

Personal Book Reviews… The Joy and Bane of Every Author’s Life By Award Winning Author Peggy Jaeger

f you are traditionally published, indie published, or self published, good book reviews can propel your work into the reading stratosphere, garner you bestseller status, and make

you a favorite choice of Reese’s Book Club. The opposite, unfortunately, holds true. Bad reviews can tank your sales, destroy your book launch, and generally give you credence to believe that imposter syndrome is alive and well and living within you. As an author, I know what a good book review can do for my career and my sales numbers. As a reader who writes reviews, I’m familiar with this as well, and am always hyperaware of the information I put in my reviews. There are certain key elements every reader should consider when penning an evaluation on a book they’ve read. After speaking with several other authors, and professional book reviewers, I’ve compiled a list of what’s best to include and what’s imperative to leave out when you write a review, especially if you are going to post it someplace where other readers can find it. “Book reviews are, first and foremost, for other readers,” bestselling author of Historical Romance, Clair Brett says. A review “is a place for one reader to give information to another.” And while the author may read the review – okay, let’s be honest here: us authors read our reviews! – it isn’t primarily meant for hers/his/their eyes.

Photo by Andrew Neel on Unsplash www.indtale.com

So what goes into a good personal book review (as opposed to an editorial review like publications such as InD’tale Magazine, Kirkus or Publisher’s Weekly)? What information is necessary and can help another reader decide if the book is for them, or make them realize it is a pass on adding to their TBR list? It goes without saying that the author’s name and book title should be included if the review is going on a personal blog or website outside of a book retailer. It’s incredibly frustrating to read a review on a blog for example, and this information isn’t mentioned – especially when the book sounds like it’s right up your reading

alley!

Remember:

basics are compulsory. Nancy, the Executive VP of N.N. Light’s Book Heaven, feels a good personal review should start off with “a hook. Like the book itself, you need

Photo by Alexandra Fuller on Unsplash

to grab the reader of the review in the

them everything and the kitchen sink” in

first sentence.” In addition to that hook,

the review.

Mistress of Book Reviews (MBR) likes to

Nancy agrees. “Characters, tension,

“have an idea of what type of romance,”

and the overall feel of the story,” are

the book being reviewed is. For instance,

important to determine if the book is

if someone is looking for a new Sweet

something other readers wants to invest

Reunion Romance to read, they need to

their time in.

know – fairly soon in the review – that

Naming book triggers has become a

the book they are considering is a steamy,

widespread element in many reviews

dark paranormal. This will clue the reader

these days. The popularity of gritty, dark,

into the fact this book might not be what

and “smut” romance has led to some

they are looking for.

readers becoming triggered with themes

Book details including the hero and

of abuse, violence, and uber-graphic sex.

heroines’ names, the setting and time

Placing a trigger warning somewhere in

period (contemporary, future, historical)

a review – if the book deals with themes

and a few brief plot points are expected

that might upset a fellow reader – is a

in a review. “Plot should be used to tanta-

good idea. Again, this allows the person

lize the reader,” MBR says, “but do not give

deciding to read the book the chance to

InD’Tale Magazine

Photo by Jonas Leupe on Unsplash

pass it by if they have issues with cer-

Reviews. “Tropes are out there to show-

tain topics.

case the starting point in a plot, to allow

Amazon, BookBub, Goodreads, and

readers to know the book could fall into

countless other review warehouses all use

line with others they’ve read.” While I do

STAR RATINGS. For the most part, these

agree, I also think many readers what to

are ridiculously subjective, but if you give

know the tropes and themes in a story.

a book 5 stars, that’s telling the reader you

They may have specific ones they just

think this one is fabulous, near perfect. A one

devour and knowing a book has those

star will tell them the opposite. But here’s

tropes will make the reader that much

the thing about one star ratings… Per-

more willing to read it. If a reader enjoys

sonally, I feel if readers are going to give a

second chance high school reunion books,

book such a low rating, they should at least

or marriage of convenience, or even secret

detail why they’re doing so. We all see so

baby storylines, and that’s what you write,

many 1 stars with just that – the star and no

a review detailing those tropes could

explanation, which leads others to wonder

encourage a sale from a new reader.

why isn’t this book liked? What made it so

Book reviews don’t have to be 5,000

egregious it needed to be rated so low? If

word tomes, detailing every chapter and

someone has the gumption to one-star a

character arc development point. One

book, they should have the same pluck and

can just read the book for that informa-

tell fellow readers why so we can make a

tion. Reviews should make the reader

more informed decision about reading it.

want to read it to discover, organically,

Including tropes in book reviews isn’t

the specifics of the story. They want to

necessary, according to Mistress of Book

experience the hero and heroine falling

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in love, resolving their conflict, stum-

endings before going in, the experience of

bling through their relationship. We

learning and watching everything evolve

all know the ending in a romance novel

on the screen would have been tainted.

– the happily ever after. That’s the guar-

Many readers feel the same way about

antee a romance book gives us – usually.

book spoilers in reviews. They ruin the

We don’t need to have every chapter and

fun of learning everything in the book for

scene point listed in the review, show-

themselves.

ing us how the characters are getting to their HEA.

review, then just like adding a trigger

Now, just as there are certain things

warning, a SPOILER ALERT must be

that should always be included in a

posted prior to sentence 1 of the review. It

review, there are a few things that should

will give other readers the chance to skip

never be included.

reading it and just look at the star rating,

The number one thing to NEVER put

If a spoiler must be added to one’s

or move down to the next review.

in a review and which every single person

According to Nancy, something else

interviewed for this article agrees on, is a

that should never go in a review is “infor-

SPOILER of any kind. A spoiler is just that

mation not relevant to the book. This

– something that, if known out of context,

includes anything having to do with the

will spoil the overall story and ending for

author. Never bash an author.” Mistress of

future readers. I’ve had the misfortune of

Book Reviews agrees. “I’ve known authors

a reviewer recently detailing every single

this has happened to, badmouthing and

spoiler in my book in her review – and

such. Attacking the author is something

there were several. My thought when I

that should not be done,” and has no place

read the review was, “well, no one needs

in a review. Unfortunately, more reviews

to read the book now because they know

lately are guilty of having author bashing

everything.” Nancy agrees, saying, “what’s

in them, especially reviews of books by

the point in reading the book if I just read

indie authors. There is no reason for any

everything about it in the review?” MBR

review to get personal. Merely stating the

puts it this way: “You can make a reader

book wasn’t for you, or it wasn’t something

curious without giving away the bank.”

that appealed to your reading desires tells

A good end goal when writing a review

the person reading the review enough.

is to give other readers just enough infor-

Name calling or calling out the author

mation to make them want to read the

serves no purpose other than building

entire book; to whet their appetite.

animosity.

Because I am such a visual person, I

Another thing that should never be

see life through my own movie lens, so

done in a review is the re-writing of the

I think of spoilers this way. Would you

book. That may sound silly, but reviews

have been happy knowing the ending to

have been seen where the reviewer has

PSYCHO, or THE USUAL SUSPECTS, or

written, “I would have ended the book

even the first STAR WARS movie before

this way,” or “this is how I think the book

you went to see them in the theatre? Yes,

could have been better.” Without sound-

I am that old. I saw every one of these in

ing snarky, if the reviewer feels this way,

an actual movie theater. Had I known the

they should write their own book and

InD’Tale Magazine

end it the way they want to. Rewriting the

the review.” MBR agrees and feels, “a

book, or giving hypotheticals is a no-no

review is a treasure and hopefully should

and, simply, bad form.

acquaint fans and future readers with the

A word concerning the DNF – did not

content between the covers, characters

finish. We’ve all DNF’d books. For what-

that leap off the pages, and a reluctance

ever reason, it happens. The book just

to have the book end.” To this end, book

didn’t resonate with us, or we didn’t like

reviews are a necessary element in every

the characters. Whatever. Not finish-

author’s life.

ing a book doesn’t make the reader a bad

As authors, we can’t control how read-

person, nor the author a poor writer. An

ers felt on the day they finished the book

issue pops up when a book is DNF’d and

and then wrote the review; we can only

then a review is written for it, stating

ever hope our words and stories resonate

only that it was a DNF, and then it’s given

positively with them. Yes, authors will

a 1 star rating. There are certain profes-

always have a one or two star rating, and

sional review sites that allow this. Why

there’ll always be someone will not like

is this allowed? The reader has already

what authors have written. Even industry

stated they did not read all the way to the

powerhouse authors have a few of those.

ending, therefore they can’t, objectively,

Clair Brett says, “I am always thankful for

give a solid review or rating on something

reviews because they help a reader decide

they haven’t completed. It would be like

if my book is for them or not. Even 1 star

a food critic giving a 1 star rating to a new

reviews can offer information to a reader,

restaurant without ever trying anything

and the more information they have, the

on the menu. Sure, he came into the place,

more satisfied about their book purchase

but he didn’t eat anything.

they will be.”

My personal thought is, what pur-

Authors may shudder every time they

pose would leaving a DNF serve? I’m the

see a new review for one of their books

one who didn’t like the book and I’m the

listed

one who didn’t finish it. Putting into a

please don’t let it be a bad one, but we recog-

review all the things that made me DNF it

nize that at least someone read it and took

seems like a waste of time that I could be

the time to tell others about it.

spending on a book I do want to finish – or writing my own.

somewhere,

fervently

praying

As I said in the beginning – reviews are the joy, and the bane, of every author’s life.

The thing we, as authors, must remem-

Thank you to all those who willingly

ber about book reviews is that they are the

spoke with me and allowed me to interview

reviewer’s opinion. So many factors went

them for their perspective on reviews.

into the writing of the review on that particular day by that particular reader, that

Clair Brett

we have no real control over how they

https://www.clairbrett.com/

perceive or depict the book. As Clair Brett states, “…reviews are a reflection of a reader’s subjective reaction

Mistress of Book Reviews https://www.mistressofbookreviews.com/

(to the book), which also includes their

N.N. Lights Book Heaven

state of mind or mood when they wrote

https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/

InD’Tale Magazine

r a t S

Rising

Sharon Michalove writes stories full of romance, suspense, and mystery. Get to know the author behind the captivating Global Security Unlimited series!

InD’Tale Magazine

Photo by Dino Reichmuth on Unsplash

hat were you like as a child? I was pretty active as a child, riding bikes, spending summer days at our local park dis-

trict field house. Unfortunately, I also had poor hand-eye coordination and no depth perception, which meant that I had trouble learning to tie my shoes and cut with scissors. I was always the last chosen when we had to make up teams in gym classes. I never was able to play tennis—too afraid of the ball hitting me—but I enjoyed badminton. One of my prime activities was going to the movies. They were cheap when I was young and my friends and I went every weekend. I could be disruptive though. In school, my report cards usually said I talked too much (to other kids, obviously, not interacting with the teachers). I was easily distracted until I finally got glasses as the age of seven. I did well when I was interested and not well when I didn’t like something, so my elementary school days were checkered with bad grades in math and good grades in history and English. Like most other girls of my generation, I was a Brownie and a Girl Scout, but I dropped out by the time I was twelve. By then I knew I hated Girl Scout camp, wasn’t interested in the badges (none of them were for reading), and didn’t care about selling cookies. I didn’t like being different. My father’s family had emigrated from Russia. They all had accents. When they saw you, they hugged, kissed you on both cheeks, and you were overcome by the scents of perfume and powder. The aunts wore coats with fur collars in the winter, and the fur would rub against your skin. As I got older, life became more complicated and I got quieter. Over time, I became more of an introvert, but that’s another story.

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Were you a big reader? What do you think influenced your love of reading?

“The New Yorker,” “The Saturday Review”,

My mom read to me from the time I was

I wanted to have written, not do the hard

very young. We had a lot of Little Golden

work of producing a book. I could picture

Books, and some picture books from when

books on my shelves with my name on

Mom and her sister were young. I read at

the spine. Being an author was the goal,

home, at my grandparents’ houses, and

not necessarily being a writer.

was always in the advanced reading group in school.

and “Poetry Magazine”. I subscribed to “The Writer” and “Writer’s Digest”. Mostly

In college, we were asked to write a stereotypical story in freshman rhetoric. All

I became fascinated with the worlds

I remember was my instructor telling me

that books opened up for me, and by the age

that it was too inventive to be stereotypical.

of four I was reading on my own, although

Guess I was always going to go my own way.

I used to think that Mom stopped reading

In my twenties I took my first crack

to me when my brother was born. When,

at a murder mystery. For all the ones I’d

many years later, I asked her about that,

read, I couldn’t plot to save my life. I gave

she told me since I could read on my own,

up after two chapters. Another try in my

there was no reason to read to me.

thirties brought the same result, and I

I was always reading something, and

turned to writing history instead. My first

we had a lot of books around. My dad was a

completed book was my doctoral disserta-

teacher and encouraged me, until I became

tion when I was forty-five.

so unsocial that I would read in my room

When I was sixty-seven I tried again,

instead of watching TV with the rest of my

and produced the first draft of my roman-

family. When I was forced to join them, I’d

tic suspense novel, At First Sight, in six

bring my book with me and read anyway.

months, which I published on my seven-

An ambitious reader, I first tried

tieth birthday. This time I knew I could be

War and Peace at the age of twelve, but it

a writer.

defeated me. I could read all the words, but I couldn’t understand the story line. I have read it since, several times.

What is it that drew you to writing suspense and mysteries?

My parents gave me a two-volume Com-

Mystery is the genre that has always stayed

plete Works of Shakespeare when I was

with me. I’ve read plenty of classic litera-

about thirteen, and I – over time – read all of

ture, and I was a big fantasy reader for a

the plays. Other writers, like Dickens and

while. I didn’t really start reading romance

Jane Austen, I discovered in high school.

until I was in my early sixties. TV was another influence. I loved watching mys-

What made you want to be a writer? teries and spy shows when I was young, I talked to myself growing up, making up

especially BBC adaptations of my favor-

invisible friends and I did all the voices.

ite British crime writers. Maybe I could

But the writing urge was a fitful one. I

blame it all on “Midsummer Murders”?

wanted to write like Agatha Christie.

Writing mystery seemed the natural

Instead, I wrote bad poetry and, perhaps

choice, and when I couldn’t plot a tradi-

recklessly, sent my adolescent efforts to

tional mystery, I combined suspense with

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romance, a choice that works for me. I

His cousin, Guy, a composer, is dead

have been able to branch out into mystery

when the story opens, but his death is

since those first forays, as well.

a significant part of Max’s psychological make-up. Guy died young and Max

Did any of your life experiences influence any of your storylines or characters? If so, give us some examples!

couldn’t get home to be with him at the

A really formative experience for me was

die, and the guilt of not being with either

watching movies. I grew up in Chicago

of my parents at their deaths. In addition,

and our local TV station, WGN, had the

my husband was a composer, and I mod-

largest movie library in the world. Most

ified a post he had made not long before

of the movies had been made in the 1930s

his death where he explained what it’s

and 1940s, filled with wacky characters,

like to lose essential pieces of yourself.

snappy dialogue, noir plots, and screw-

Not only could he no longer compose,

ball comedy. If there was movie I really

he couldn’t make sense of the music he

wanted to see on the weekend that was

heard. I turned his writing into a letter

running in the middle of the night, I’d go

from Guy to Max.

end. He feels guilty about not having been there. Much of the emotion is based on my experience of watching my husband

to bed early and set my alarm. One morn-

What is your absolute favorite, I’d woken her up, laughing at something. and most dreaded parts of She also loved old movies and stayed up to writing a new novel? ing, my mom came downstairs at 3 a.m.

watch it with me. I think my strength in

Planning a new novel is always fun. Creat-

writing dialogue and creating characters

ing characters, choosing settings, figuring

out of whole cloth comes from watching

out the bare bones of the plot are the first

“The Thin Man” movies, Cary Grant, Hum-

creative phase. Every time I get an idea for

phrey Bogart, and the Marx Brothers.

a new novel or story, I make a mock cover

My characters are an amalgam of

and write a blurb. I have a lot of these

people I know and things I imagine. Like

pieces floating around – probably enough

most writers, they are also part me. Cress

to keep me going for the next ten years.

Taylor, my first heroine, has a Ph.D. in

The other thing I love is editing. My

history, writes novels, only has a few

creativity goes into overdrive as I modify

close friends, and is one of the clumsiest

my draft to add emotion and rich descrip-

women you will ever meet. She’s also a

tion. I want the reader to see the places

hockey fan and loves to eat out. Yes, she’s

and engage their senses. In the process, I

me with some twists.

discover new things about the characters.

Max Grant, her love interest, is a

Editing is an ongoing part of writing for

former spy, something my late husband

me, but at some point I have to declare the

aspired to. Unlike my husband, he’s tall,

project done and move on to the next book.

dark, and looks like a movie star. But they

On the other hand, writing the first

share a love of bad jokes and foreign lan-

draft can be torture. The writing is pedes-

guages. I wanted to write my perfect book

trian. The ideas don’t always flow, and I

boyfriend and that’s Max.

worry that the plot isn’t working. Scenes

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can be boring. Imposter Syndrome rears

most kids only spent two weeks. Not being able to study

its head. I just have push through and hope

abroad in my junior year was devastating as my dream of

I can improve it in the editing process

living in London evaporated.

without having to completely rewrite.

At one time, I planned on going into the Foreign Service, but I wasn’t sure I could pass the test. I still wonder what my

What’s a writing bucket list item of yours?

life would have been like if I had pursued that track.

I would love to go on a writing retreat with

abroad after he finished his Master’s degree. Our married

some of my favorite authors in Italy, or on

life was filled with travel, something that has featured in

a Greek Island cruise.

my books. At first we took a trip every couple of years. By

The man I met the day before classes started had traveled

the time he died, we were doing several trips a year, some of

If you could give anyone wanting to write a story one piece of advice, what would it be?

them as long as five weeks.

Look back occasionally to see how far

writing with a friend. The wanderlust is still there, even if

you’ve come. You might be surprised.

the execution is harder.

So many writers only think ahead – to the next book, the next event. We all tend

I still travel when I can. This year I went to Antarctica and Venice. Next year, I hope to spend a month in Sardinia

I think books are a way of sating our wanderlust any time we want to leave home.

to moan about not being good enough, productive enough. We want to make more money. Be a star. Get recognition from our peers, or win awards. All of these are laudable desires. But we need to appreciate how far we’ve come, even as we contemplate the next step in our journey. Check back through the goals you set in the past. Did you meet them? So what if you’ve published one book or twenty? Maybe you’re unpublished but you have lots of drafts sitting around. If you’ve been writing, you’re accomplishing something. Celebrate those incremental victories before you worry about surpassing them.

What is something you’d like readers to know about you? I have wanderlust. Sometimes I wonder if living full-time on a cruise ship would fulfill my desire to travel. I have always wanted to go somewhere else. When I was a child, I would visit my grandparents and not want to go home. I chose a month at summer camp when

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Let'sGet

Y K O O SP Scott Carpenter

t’s that time of year again. You know, right after summer, the HALLOWEN countdown begins.

Funny how this holiday brings out the freaky stuff and everyone considers it normal. Blood, vampires,

candy, werewolves, ghosts, candy, skeletons, zombies and of course… candy. Isn’t that what Halloween is all about? Eating and sorting all the kids’ candy when they get back home after roaming the neighbors’ front doorsteps with their baskets, and accidentally hoarding your favorites from the bowl by your door—the ones you are supposed to hand out to the little superheroes and Disney characters. Confess it, you know I’m right – you’ve been caught more than once, haven’t you? Being honest though, I think most people enjoy the preHalloween build-up. You can decorate your house with all the things boxed up in the garage that collect dust during the rest of the year. It’s not like you would put up a graveyard out front for the kid’s birthday party. Well, you could do it I suppose, but anytime other than October and it would be just plain weird. It’s always a fun time prepping for a night of ghoulish thrills. Just seeing all the munchkins running around, sugared up and crazy, and knowing you’ll get to add to it before they leave. In essence, you are like grandma and grandpa feeding the kids sweets all day, knowing they will be bouncing off the walls for a few hours that night, as you sleep soundly and ignore the curses of their parents. Other benefits of this particular holiday? You are now perfectly free to read all the shape-shifting, vampire, scary

InD’Tale Magazine

Photo by Michael Elliott on Unsplash

type books you wouldn’t particularly want people

Then we go back and do it all over again.

to see as you drink your eight-dollar coffee any

Just like a book. We throw it aside, shaking

other time of the year.

our heads and saying, “I’m done, no more… wait,

It does mess with people’s minds, seeing that

I wonder what happens next.” And we flip to the

horrifying book cover and wondering why on earth

next page, picturing it all over again. It’s one of the

you’re laughing at tales about demons and posses-

greatest joys of reading.

sion. I prefer the classics myself. Not necessarily Victorian Gothic horror all the time, but most everything from Anne Rice or Steven King is a sure thing when it comes to freshening your twisted imagination. They either have to deal with it or leave as you tap your new pen shaped like a wooden stake.

So I started thinking. (Yes, that’s pretty frightening right there, I know.) I was wondering… what are some of the most popular scary books? Steven King is a master of everything terrifying. His twisted mind comes up with all kinds of

Devouring the gruesome details of all the car-

stuff. Can you imagine his schoolteachers’ reac-

nage on a written page demands you see it in your

tions when they asked for an essay? They probably

mind. It’s even more graphic when such stories are

had to get some therapy – or a lot of aged Scotch.

transferred to the screen on a large high-resolution television. Don’t forget the popcorn and Red Vines, and the pillow to hide behind when it gets too scary. Ghost stories are always a blast. You lay in the dark reading a book and hear something move or fall in the closet. Already being on edge, you jump

Besides Mr. King, however, I wondered what were some of the other most popular books in this genre. I did a quick search for books about Halloween. I guessed it would be different to straight horror, and here is a list I found that was interesting. 1.

by Shirley Jackson

about six feet and then scream when you see those eyes from the light on your phone. It’s a ghost, or a monster or… it’s actually your Chihuahua with a sock in its mouth. Personally, I love the timeless creations of

2. The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris 3. Final Girls by Riley Sager 4. The Final Girl Support Group

Mary Shelley and Edgar Allan Poe. The classic horror tales that just creep you out. I know everyone has a different taste in books, especially when it comes to this genre, but that’s the wonder of the reading world. Some people freak out about evil spirits, others scream at bugs. No matter what your fear, scary is scary. Reading horror helps us delve into our fears and what makes us uncomfortable, and often makes real life horrors easier to handle. Watching a scary movie is always entertaining because it is showing everything right in front of you. The fun part is seeing people jump out of their skin when the monster breaks out. It’s the instant

The Haunting of Hill House

by Grady Hendrix 5. The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James 6. Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman 7.

Dracula by Bram Stoker

8. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides 9. The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty 10. The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley (Thank you for the list: https://www.purewow. com/ books/halloween-books-for-adults)

adrenaline rush that makes us shriek, shudder,

If you have time, you can make your own list.

lose our breath… and it’s usually the time when we

I didn’t see Frankenstein on there, but there are

spill our popcorn and drinks.

continued on page 54

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InD’Tale Magazine

Suggestions

to New, Aspiring Writers

By Breakfield and Burkey

https://pixabay.com/photos/writing-writer-notes-pen-notebook-923882/

reakfield and Burkey recently attended

fiction typically has a cover reflective of the con-

a live author-selling event at a library

tent rather than a dark background with a hooded

in a small town in North Texas. Many

killer, whereas self-help appeals to a problem the

attendees were avid readers, but were

content solves. The words, covers, formatting, dia-

also interested in becoming writers. The event was

logue, pictures, or call-outs stem from your choice.

well attended, and we thought others might enjoy

Making this one selection doesn’t mean you are

the discussion. We selected the best ones to share.

stuck forever. But each manuscript must get tar-

For argument’s sake, let’s say you can’t decide on being a full-time or a part-time writer yet. That

geted to the audience of a specific market.

and pay bills. Conversely, working can disrupt your

writing cadence, and may take longer to complete

ask the sales folks what makes a specific title appeal

your project. You can decide when you are ready.

to their readers. Which of these have you read and

why did you like it? If they read a few pages, check

choice won’t change what we consider the top seven elements. The good news is you can keep your day job for a couple of years—eat regularly

Do Your Homework In your chosen genre, who are you competing against? Identify the top 100 best sellers

on Amazon. Visit a bookstore, see the top books, and

Decide Your Genre

them out. Read the back cover. Note the top authors,

Your decision is often based on what you like

too. Authors' names and book titles will be useful in

and what you know. Picking a category allows

your future marketing. Don’t read all of them unless

you to clarify your target audience. It is easier to

you want to. We suggest this as a skimming session.

successfully bring new works to the market when

Make notes on the covers that drew you and those

you understand the primary readers of the subject,

you dislike. Thumb through the pages observing

be it fiction or non-fiction. For example, romance

the formatting, font sizes, and readability. www.indtale.com

Gather Initial Marketing Materials

several times before proceeding with the next install-

The activity above is a great start for your

ment. They claim that the characters sometimes tell

future marketing. For most authors, promot-

the author that a story correction is in order. These

ing their creations takes more time than writing

hybrid-style writers use some discipline outline

books. The ongoing selling process stems from a

structure but couple it with a freeform approach.

great foundation. Keep notes on keywords, catego-

Learn what works best for you and stick with it.

ries relevant to the genre, number of reviews, and

a well-written book, but ferret out the constructive

comments. Keep this material handy, like in a sep-

Get engaged in one or more author groups as these

arate folder on your laptop. Good selling strategies

groups can help you improve in a safe place. Con-

begin the day you start your manuscript.

structive criticism is a valuable learning tool for

writers in your selected genre, and outside of it.

authors' social media platforms. You might read what the readers said, noting things they like and landmines to avoid. Every reader will not love even

Start Building Your Writer Network A network for authors consists of many elements outside of your family. Key people

to cultivate are other authors or writing groups.

Are You a Pantser, Plotter, or Hybrid?

Friends and family will be encouraging; however,

Each writer approaches their craft differ-

is, "Good job, and I’m proud of you”—awesome for

ently. A pantser writes without an outline or, often

after reading your material, their typical response your ego, but it’s not at all helpful.

stated, writing by the seat of their pants. Some-

Being a member of an author group is a two-

one who takes great pains to outline their work

way street in that you get and give assistance to

in advance or build journey boards is considered

improve the piece. You can learn techniques you

a plotter. There is also a hybrid version of writ-

can mimic while finding issues you don’t want to

ers who start with a broad outline, with chapters

repeat. These groups aid in the creation of future

roughed out a few at a time. A fabulous, accom-

beta readers, and develop your fans for social

plished writer once remarked no one ever gets on a

media. Marketing is a major piece of your success

ship without knowing the destination. You need a

in the long term. If you find yourself in a group

level of discipline, or the result will suffer.

with mean-spirited criticism, seek another group.

Build a character list with the names of char-

You do not need to subject yourself to the abuse

acters, places, and key pieces of information. For

of anyone when you are learning and growing in

example, Kathy or Katy might be a great name for

this skill. An individual will continue to grow and

the lead character in your romance novel. Be con-

improve after the first book—or the twentieth.

sistent with the spelling from page one to the end.

Readers don’t like this, especially if the cover was

the main reason for their purchase.

or virtual bookstore after it is complete needs the

following elements:

You might keep track of your heroine’s hair color to make certain the fiery redhead falling for the Duke of Margerie isn’t depicted as a blond on the cover.

Step Away From Your Project We’ve heard “write all of it, then put it away for at least a month before touching again”.

This might work for some people who completed a scripted story outline before writing. We’ve also seen writers write 10 to 12 chapters and review them 40

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Learn Elements of Book Production Indie authors who do not get picked up by a publisher must learn about all the ele-

ments. Getting a book on the shelves of a physical

D An editor-preferably a genre editor, and after that, a proofreader.

D Interior design D Front cover for the ‘wow’ factor

D Back cover content for sizzle once a

Marketing is an ongoing effort. It may require

perspective reader picks up the book

a website to showcase your work and social media

D Pricing for e-book and paperback versions

presence, starting with one or two until you get a

(audiobooks have several more layers not covered in this article)

D Marketing An outside editor gives additional perspective. Even seasoned writers miss simple things now and again that an editor will catch. Misspellings or incorrect word usage will ruin the reader's experience. There are digital tools available to aid this, but take care with uploading your document to just any program. Interior design includes chapter breaks, possibly with interior images for the professional appearance that will draw the reader in, not put them off with impossibly small fonts or poor spacing. As one award-winning graphic artist specializing in book designs once said, “ebooks do not need to be ugly and can embrace color at no additional cost.” The same goes for cover design. If you did your research, book cover art for your genre may have rules to guide you. Canva, as an example, is helpful if you want DIY. Covers with too many images might confuse the reader. People do buy books from their covers, so it is critical. Plus, times and tastes change. You may want to republish a book to get a more suitable cover or branding image over a series to target your current fans. The sizzle portion of the back cover of a paperback or summary to hook readers is like a trailer for a movie; it grabs the audience. Reading covers helps, but sometimes getting expert advice can hit that homerun you want. Pricing is often based on the genre, but printing costs can come into play. You want your book priced at three to four times greater than the print costs to help with your marketing budget and to provide earnings. The retail price needs to land at the same level as your competitors. Remember your initial research on pricing; as a new author, follow the herd.

InD’Tale Magazine

fan base and advertising. You should explore big digital marketplaces that will host your website for you rather than trying to build your own. Experience helps with designs, and your author network can often advise you on what works and doesn’t. If you are committed to writing and publishing a story that will gain valued readers, use your imagination and experience. We don’t advocate a book created using generative A.I. as the end-all be-all. We don’t believe you will get the same level of satisfaction when claiming a software program wrote or built your masterpiece. You might also find out you inadvertently plagiarized another writer. Many generative A.I. programs use opensource input from anywhere and everywhere. If you want the original, write it yourself. Readers and marketing professionals tell us, why should readers consider it if the book doesn’t appear professionally created with quality writing and presentation? Invest in your product so the readers will spend valuable time reading it.

Penny Thompson expected to sell the family farm after her father died and get back to the city. But finding a body buried by the creek created a mystery. Who was the young boy? And why would somebody bury him on the Thompson farm? Meanwhile, Penny discovered that her father’s open space deal with the town does not obligate her, as she thought, to sell only to the town for the predetermined price. Penny suddenly has options, while she and her high school sweetheart try to unravel the mystery of the murdered boy.

Photo by Bence Balla-Schottner on Unsplash

www.indtale.com

PART 1

GHOSTS

HE FAMILY FARM was the absolute last destination on Penny’s travel wish list. A stray strand of hair fell across her amber eyes as she stared out of the pockmarked Amtrak window. A blurred carousel of images passed by without sparking any interest. Farmland, strip malls, neatly organized pods of houses, then more farmland. She already missed the city. Her girlfriends would be going to Rosie’s pub after work to flirt with the hot waiters. Penny was on the train to Hell. She thought she had left the ghosts behind three years ago. The phone call had been a shock. Her father, Gary Thompson, was strong as a bull, stubborn as a mule, and Penny thought he would never die. His heart disease had other plans. If only her brother, Eric, was around handle this for her. Penny turned away from the window and extracted a tissue from her purse. She swore to herself that she wouldn’t cry, but these tears were for Eric. Penny’s mother died of cancer when she was seventeen and Eric fourteen. When she went off to college, Eric was a junior at Westfield High. Eric said he would be fine alone with Dad until graduation. Penny was nearing the end of her sophomore year, enjoying life in the city, when word came that Eric had been killed in a car accident. He lost control and drove into a tree one month shy of escaping the farm. The whole town turned out for the funeral. So much sadness should not befall a single family. That was the last time she had ridden the Amtrak back to the place she once called home. Three years ago. She was not looking forward to her father’s funeral or spending any time in the big farmhouse – with the ghosts. When the train slowed, Penny was surprised that two hours had passed. She exited the train onto the familiar

concrete platform. Heat and humidity hit like an ocean wave after the air-conditioned Amtrak. A colorful poster for her old dentist, featuring a cartoonish roadster shaped like a tooth, made her smile. Another placard announced the upcoming county fair, featuring smiling faces holding corn dogs on long sticks. Her stomach churned, thinking of the grease. Before more old memories could flood her already addled brain, blue and red flashing lights caught her attention. A black Sheriff ’s SUV hugged the curb at the base of the wooden stairs leading from the train platform. Seeing the man in a blue uniform leaning against the front grill sent a tingle up Penny’s spine. She froze, prompting other passengers to brush against her as they veered around the unexpected obstruction. Penny’s gaze was fixed on Chuck Foreman’s waving hand. She waved back, years of memories cascaded into her brain, despite her best efforts to block them. “How’d you know I’d be on this train?” She dropped her Yves Saint Laurent overnight bag on the dusty sidewalk. Chuck looked different. At their senior prom, his hair dangled around his ears and his face was dappled with acne. Now, a smooth, square chin rested beneath a row of white teeth. He seemed taller, and certainly broader in the chest and shoulders, in his crisp uniform. She could not see any hair peeking below his Smokey Bear hat. His clear blue eyes had the same puppy-dog expression she remembered. They had dated throughout their junior and senior years. Then he went off to join the Army and she left for college in the city. Five years ago. A lifetime. “You know how it is,” he looked at the ground with the shy smile she was so attracted to as a naive teenager. www.indtale.com

“Betty Anne’s mom works at the funeral parlor and knows you have an appointment at four-thirty. Word got around to me and this is the last train that would get you here in time. You look amazing.” Penny knew she looked far from amazing. Two hours on a train, barely any make-up, bloodshot eyes, unwashed hair tied up in a ponytail, and wearing a shapeless t-shirt with her worst pair of jeans. Chuck had to be starved for any girl not dragging a toddler. “Thanks, but I know I’m a mess.” “Well, you look great to me.” Chuck tossed her bag into the back seat, then opened the passenger door for her. On the ride, she asked about Chuck’s parents and his younger sister. Audrey was married and had two kids. His parents were the typical doting grandparents. His father still ran the hardware store and his mom spent most of her time at the Presbyterian Church. Chuck enthusiastically recounted his family’s happiness. He knew not to ask about hers. At the funeral parlor, Penny survived the process of approving the arrangements – the framed photo of her father to be displayed next to the casket, the information for the guest book, and a dozen other details she barely comprehended and cared nothing about. She politely declined to view the body. Back outside, Penny inhaled deeply. The July air was thick with humidity and memories. Chuck, who had made it his business to be her personal chauffeur for the day, drove to her childhood home. As the big SUV rolled up the long, winding road to the Thompson farmhouse, a yellow Labrador bounded down the gravel driveway, barking excitedly. Penny’s face lit up. She spilled out of the car before it fully stopped, dropped to one knee, and buried her face in the old dog’s neck. “Duke, oh you good boy!” she chirped, scratching the floppy folds of skin around the dog’s ear with a manicured nail. “You need any help?” Chuck deposited her designer overnight bag on the gravel. “No. We’ll be alright,” she said around Duke’s tongue. Their neighbors must have taken care of Duke in the two days since he became the farm’s last remaining resident. She disengaged long enough to thank Chuck for the ride – and his kindness. He held out his arms and she fell into a hug, which lingered. As the cloud of dust from Chuck’s departure dissipated, the memories hit like a summer storm. Penny turned 46

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toward the cornfield. The stalks were thin and far shorter than they should have been in July, the result of the hot and dry summer, punctuated by thunderstorms. She shook her head. Why was she thinking about the health of the corn crop? She didn’t care. She didn’t want to be there, but somebody had to settle the estate. The land would revert to the town under the open space deal her father made when he decided it was too difficult to work the farm for profit. After that, he just grew strawberries in the spring, one field of corn in the summer, and pumpkins in the fall. He sold the pumpkins to the town’s children for pennies. Her mother had reveled in decorating the place for Halloween and designing the corn maze each fall . . .before she died. The ghosts were even there in the cornfield. Penny finally forced herself into the house through the back door, which was unlocked, like always. The spotless kitchen, looking the same as when she was ten, waited patiently to service the family’s needs. Back then, it was a hive of activity. Now, it was a silent husk. Duke nuzzled Penny’s leg and whined. She put out dog food, which he quickly inhaled, then fixed herself an omelet in a black cast iron skillet. Eating had slipped her mind. The cheese and eggs in the fridge were still fresh, as if her father was away only for the weekend. She was halfway through her food when Duke barked and sat up, then raced out the kitchen door. A car ground its way up the driveway, prompting Penny to abandon her plate. Outside, she watched Duke circle around Chester Almon, the mayor of Westfield. His father, Duncan, the previous mayor, had seamlessly passed the executive torch to his son, along with his land development business. It was the natural progression of things. “I’m so sorry, Penny,” he patted his thick chest as he spoke. Only a few years older than Penny, he had already settled into his father’s barrel-shaped body and thinning hair. “Thank you,” she replied politely. “I just got here.” “You take your time organizing your dad’s affairs. I’m not in a hurry. Under the terms of the agreement your father signed with the town, you have the option to stay on the farm as long as you want. You also have the option to sell the farm to the town at any time. You can take the four hundred and fifty thousand whenever you want it.”

“That’s the sale price?” “That’s what’s in the agreement. But, as I said, you can also choose to stay and work the farm. You take your time and let me know when you make a decision.” “Those are my only options? Live here and work the farm, or sell to the town?” “That was your father’s deal, but you have much more important things to concentrate on right now. You get through the funeral and we’ll talk later. I wanted to wish you my condolences personally.” He retreated to his BMW without looking back, Duke following behind to ensure the intruder didn’t linger. *** AN HOUR LATER, tired from staring at bills, bank records, and check registers, Penny took Duke outside for a run. After a few quick ball-fetches in the oppressive heat, she decided to take refuge in the barn. The small side door creaked like an old friend as Penny’s nose drew in the musty air, filled with hay and manure. Penny meandered through the familiar space, stopping at her father’s workbench, with his tools neatly arranged on a pegboard wall. She recalled her father teaching her how to change the oil in the tractor, how to tie knots, change sparkplugs, and clean and care for the tools. On the pegboard, three hammers of varying sizes hung from hooks. There was a gap where the second-largest of the set of four should have been. Her father never left a tool out of its proper place. Maybe he was using it when he had his heart attack. The thought actually made her smile. It’s how he would have wanted to die – holding a hammer. Turning away, her eyes landed on a hulking shadow against the far wall. The old tractor. When she was a girl, it was already past its prime, but it had been the farm’s iron horse. It pulled the big wagon full of giggling children through the Haunted Hayride at Halloween. Now, it was covered with rust and mold. She climbed into the springloaded seat, oblivious to the grime rubbing onto her jeans. The key was in its usual hiding spot, but only a weak click greeted its turn. Dead battery. Lifting the engine cover and peering inside, she heard her father’s voice over her shoulder. She was twelve again. Duke, then a puppy, bounded www.indtale.com

in the hay. “Ya see those brown nubs, stickin’ up there? Those are your spark plugs. Without those, nothin’ runs.” Penny shook her head to chase away her father’s spectral voice. Those were the good days – before her mom got sick. For the first time, she felt the loss of her father like a mule kick. For the next half hour, she worked to put new plugs in the tractor’s engine. There was a fresh box in the plastic bin, second down, two in from the left. Where they belonged. That was the farm she remembered; everything in its place. It was foolish, putting new plugs in a dilapidated engine that probably wouldn’t ever run again. Wiping engine grease from her hands with a fresh rag from under the workbench, Penny remembered the first time her dad let her drive the tractor by herself when she was fourteen. She would have to get a new battery. She could not explain why, but getting the tractor working again was important. The sun hid behind dark, ominous clouds as Penny emerged from the barn. She felt the wind kick up and smelled the metallic scent of ozone. A storm was coming. That night, Penny snuggled in her childhood bed, listening to the rain pelting like buckshot against her window while Duke’s heavy breathing helped her sleep. *** THE CRUNCH OF TIRES on gravel woke Penny the next morning. Light streamed through the crack between the shade and the top of her window, telling her it was already late morning. Duke barked and ducked through his doggie door, which allowed him unimpeded ingress and egress. When Penny finally pushed through the kitchen door, her gut fluttered. Chuck Foreman knelt by his Sheriff ’s SUV, patting Duke. Seeing Penny, he stood and waved. “You don’t have to check up on me,” she said, trying to sound more annoyed than she really was. Chuck’s smiling face was more comforting than she wanted to admit. “I’m not checking on you. I’m checking on the fire.” Chuck gestured over his shoulder. Penny held a hand up to shade her eyes and squinted toward the horizon. Thin 48

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gray smoke rose up from an unseen source. She noticed the smell of burning wood. The thunderstorm. It wasn’t unusual for a lightning strike to take down a tree and sometimes start a fire. Chuck marched toward the pasture, while Penny hurried to catch up. At the far side of the field, a creek snaked across the landscape at the bottom of a gully, four feet below the rest of the land. Penny and Eric had spent countless hours down those banks, splashing in the clear water and fishing for the trout that spawned in the culvert beyond the county road. Beyond the creek bed, an ancient oak tree lorded over the meadow where the cows once grazed when it had been a working farm. The oak had seen two centuries. On this day it had lost one of its four great limbs, which lay on the grass, smoldering. A nasty black scar slashed up from the ground along the thick trunk. The tree would survive, but would mourn the loss of an arm. The engorged stream rushed through its soft canyon, feeding the night’s rainwater away from the farm. A portion of the bank had collapsed and slid toward the water’s edge. Penny took a step down the bank, but slipped in the mud, embedding a sneaker. “Damn!” Chuck quickly reached her, his Sheriff ’s boots sinking into the saturated soil. Penny’s foot escaped the mud with a sucking squish, leaving her pink New Balance running shoe behind. “Oh, for crying out loud,” she exclaimed. “I got that.” Chuck helpfully reached toward the hole that quickly filled with water. He extracted the shoe, washed off the mud in the stream, then turned to hand it to Penny, who sat on a dark rock. His left arm was halfextended when he stopped and stared at the creek bank to his right. “What’s more interesting than me down there in the mud?” “That,” Chuck pulled back Penny’s sneaker and used it to point. Sticking out from the bank, where the ground had washed away, was another sneaker. Brown from being covered in dirt, the rubber sole was visible. An exposed bone extended into the shoe’s heel, then disappeared into the soil. Penny’s eyes opened as wide as one of her mother’s China tea saucers. It was a body, and it had been there for a while.

PART 2

INVESTIGATIONS

“W

HAT SHOULD WE DO?” Penny gasped; her eyes transfixed on the gruesome appendage protruding from the now-exposed creek bank. The discolored bone was gray and streaked with brown mud, disappearing into the hightop sneaker with a red Nike swoosh still visible under the grime. “We call in the crime scene team.” Chuck’s voice calmed Penny as he took her hand, helping her back up the slippery incline. Once back on the pasture’s scrubby grass, he looked seriously into Penny’s face. “Did your family ever bury anyone out here?” “No!” Penny’s face was a maelstrom of fear, confusion, and also anger at Chuck for asking. “We never buried anybody. Maybe it’s from before dad bought the farm.” “Not wearing a Nike sneaker,” Chuck mumbled his reply, not wanting to spook Penny. “Let’s get back. That fire isn’t spreading anywhere.” He took her hand again and pulled Penny away from the creek. She looked back at the still-smoldering oak tree and at the rushing creek. The image of the raw bone protruding from the mud was seared into her memory. *** BY NOON, FOUR SHERIFF’S DEPUTIES, two grave diggers from the local mortuary, and the county coroner were working in the blazing sun to carefully extract the remains. Recovering the skeleton, shreds of clothing, and fragments of partially-preserved skin, was a slow process. By sundown, the remains had been fully exhumed and laid on a blue tarp in the back of an F-150 pickup. The coroner announced, without an autopsy, that the hole in the skeleton’s skull, above the left ear, was the likely cause of 50

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death. She did not give a road-side opinion on whether it was a homicide, or how long the body had been buried. The biggest question, of course, was the identity of the corpse. Within a few hours, the small town of Westfield was abuzz with speculation. *** ON SATURDAY, MORE THAN a hundred cars paraded to the cemetery after a heartfelt memorial service for “Farmer Gary” Thompson. Pastor Thurmond had to limit the number of speakers, then read the names of everyone else who had volunteered to give a testimonial. After the burial, Chuck briefed Penny on the investigation into the mystery body. “The coroner says the body was a male between eighteen and twenty. She’s pretty sure the boy was murdered, based on the hole in his skull. We checked all the records in the past few years about missing teenagers. His sneakers were an Air Jordan 1 retro model that was released for sale four years ago, which narrows down the search parameters.” “How many missing persons fit that profile?” Penny asked, glad to talk about something other than her sainted father and how sad everyone was. “There are no unsolved murders in the county. We identified two files on kids who disappeared, but the investigations all concluded that the boys ran away because of problems at home. We don’t know where they went, so it’s possible one of them is our body. We’re checking on descriptions and dental records. Our skull has a clean set of teeth, so we should be able to make an ID from that without needing DNA analysis.” “You think somebody killed one of those boys and then decided to dump the body on our farm?”

“It’s possible. The ground would be soft there next to the creek.” “It really creeps me out. I love that creek.” Chuck reached out and gently touched Penny’s elbow. “I remember.” Penny put her hand on Chuck’s, feeling his warmth and strength. The funeral director chose then to tap her on the shoulder. As her black limo pulled away from the cemetery, she looked out the window and waved at Chuck. *** ON MONDAY MORNING, Penny called her boss at the marketing firm where she had worked for nearly a year. “I’m really sorry, but I’m going to need more time off than I thought. . . . No, I’m fine, it’s just that things here are more complicated than I expected. . . . I need to clean up some, um, problems before I can come back. . . . Thanks for understanding. I’ll call you at the end of the week and let you know where things are.” Penny stared at the black handset, attached to the kitchen wall by a long, coiled cord with multiple kinks. She recalled pulling that cord to its limits while trying to find a private place where she could have a sweetheart conversation with Chuck. Her father refused to get a cordless phone. The old land line was good enough for him, so it was good enough for his kids. She always felt like their farm house was frozen in the 1970s. Penny put out food for Duke, but before she could sit down to her morning yogurt and granola, the phone’s piercing bell called her back. It was Mayor Almon, again. After expressing his sympathy, he got to the point. “I’m not trying to put any pressure on you, but, well, I hate to even bring this up, but in order to keep the farm going under the terms of the open space agreement, you need to be growing something on the land.” “The corn’s growing,” Penny responded. “Not well, because of the heat, but it’s growing. I’m not sure I’ll be able to make a maze from it, but it’s there.” “That’s great. It would be a shame if the kids don’t have a corn maze this year, but I completely understand. If you decide to stay, I know the town would be so happy to have pumpkins in the fall. Did your father plant yet?”

Penny stared out the window. She could see the north field where the pumpkins grew every year. A few tufts of weeds stuck up from the dry, tan ground. She could tell that nothing had been planted there recently. “I’m not sure. I’ll have to look into that. Thanks for calling.” When she hung up, the thought crossed her mind that she could plant the pumpkin crop, but she dismissed it as crazy. She had not told the Mayor she intended to sell. He seemed so anxious that she didn’t want to give him the satisfaction. At noon, Chuck called to report no progress in the investigation into the mystery body. Sheriff Jack Baskins had expanded the search to any missing boys in the whole state. The coroner sent DNA samples to the state crime lab and to the FBI to see if they could match the body to any open cases. It was a slow process. Penny had uncovered as much of her father’s financial records as she needed to feel comfortable about paying off all the outstanding bills without overdrawing the checking account. According to the bank statements, the town made its $12,500 open space payment directly into her father’s checking account on the first of every month. It wasn’t enough to make her want to stay and live with the ghosts. She had an appointment Tuesday morning with her father’s lawyer to talk about settling the estate. Without anything else to do, Penny spent several hours in the barn with Duke, working on the old tractor. There was a fully functioning tractor in the equipment shed, with plow and planter attachments. But Penny didn’t want to use the new tractor. She wanted to ride the old one – the one she drove around the farm as a girl. It passed the time in an environment with no Wi-Fi, and a pathetically weak cell signal. Chuck brought her a new battery on Sunday. By Monday afternoon, Penny got the old girl cleaned up, but still could not get her engine to turn over. The problem was definitely the starter. She could fix many things, but not a starter. She would have to go to the John Deere store. After a shower, Penny roamed the old house, looking for anything she might want to salvage for herself before everything went to Goodwill. Duke dutifully followed behind her. There wasn’t much. She stood at the end of the upstairs hallway for two full minutes before forcing herself to open the door to Eric’s bedroom. www.indtale.com

The musty odor of stale air hit her hard. Her dead brother’s single bed, its powder blue comforter stretched tautly, sat patiently under wall posters of Harry Styles, Halsey, Lady Gaga, and Katy Perry. A black blotter on a painted oak desk waited for homework assignments that would never come. Her father had not touched the room since Eric’s funeral. Opening the closet door, she scanned Eric’s clothes, which brought back another tsunami of memories she had deeply buried and did not welcome. She flopped onto the hardwood floor and dragged out a shoebox from the corner. Inside was a mess of papers and small items – Eric’s learner’s permit, a dried flower in a plastic sleeve, high school transcripts, and the acceptance letter from Brown University for the freshman year he never had. She realized she was crying only when a tear splashed onto an envelope. It felt good to cry, so she didn’t try to stop. She noticed a photograph in which Eric smiled happily. Her brother was seldom happy, so it warmed her heart. He stood on a boulder she recognized; next to a small lake a few miles away where they went swimming when their little creek wasn’t deep enough. Wearing a bathing suit, his smooth chest bare, he looked younger than she remembered. His left arm was thrown casually around the shoulder of another boy. She didn’t recognize him, but he smiled as widely as Eric. On the back of the photo, in Eric’s wobbly script, it said “with Oliver.” She dropped the photo into a canvas bag, which she had been dragging around the house like she was trick-or-treating on Halloween, expecting to fill it with mementos before the house got sold. Eric’s photo became the first treat. Duke barked and bounded toward the stairs. Moments later, Penny heard the approaching vehicle. Outside, a tall man wearing a red blazer, even in the sweltering heat, leaned against a white Ford Taurus. He had wavy brown hair and a smile punctuated by teeth brighter than the overhead sun. “You must be Penny,” he called. “Who’s asking?” She reached down to massage Duke’s head as the dog emitted a low growl in the direction of the stranger. “Arthur Madden, Century real estate. I heard about your father and wanted to come settle up our deal. Since you’ll get the proceeds, I’m guessing you’ll want to get 52

InD’Tale Magazine

that done pretty quickly. Am I right?” He again flashed his artificially whitened teeth, as if Penny would swoon at the sight of his dimples. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Madden reached into a shiny briefcase and held up a yellow folder. “Why don’t we get out of this sun and I’ll fill you in?” With Duke’s ears pricked up and alert, Penny allowed the real estate agent into the kitchen and offered him a Coke. He spread some papers on the smooth wooden table surface and explained that Gary Thompson had made a deal two years earlier to sell the farm to a group of real estate developers represented by Madden. “It should be in your father’s will.” Penny picked up a pile of papers, noting that none bore her father’s signature. “Dad never told me anything about this. Besides, he had a deal with the town. They pay him to keep the farm working and undeveloped. When he dies – died – the town has an option to buy the land. I don’t think Dad could have made any other deal, with you or with anyone else.” Madden’s facial expression didn’t change. “Have you read his will?” “No. I’m meeting with Dad’s lawyer tomorrow.” “Good. I’m sure you’ll see that the will includes the deal. You’ll be getting the million dollars.” “A million dollars?” she dropped the papers. “Yep. That’s the sale price, and it goes to you. You’re the only surviving heir, right?” Penny dropped her head. “Yes. I’m it.” “Great. Well – it’s not great that you are the only member of your family left, but it’s great that you’ll get the money. I’m guessing that working the farm isn’t what you have in mind for the rest of your life, huh?” “Probably not.” Madden stood and extended a gold-colored business card. “You give me a call after you talk to your lawyer.” She took the card, seeing that the man wasn’t leaving until she did. He showed himself out while Penny read through the transaction papers he left behind. Was it possible her father agreed to sell to these developers? That evening, Chuck arrived, wearing overalls and carrying a pizza. He was ready to spend his non-working time helping Penny work on the old tractor. As starry-eyed

teens, they snuck out to the barn to make out in the hay loft. Penny never let Chuck get her naked, but they explored each other as much as physically possible with clothes mostly on. Since her return to town, Chuck had been a perfect gentleman, although Penny sensed from his attention that he hoped to rekindle their former heat. But she wasn’t ready. She hadn’t had a serious romantic attachment since Eric died. They managed to spend three hours tinkering with the dormant engine and talking about their high school days. Chuck even made her laugh a few times. The next morning, Chuck accompanied Penny on her errands in town, happy to be her chauffeur. She could have driven her father’s truck, but there were ghosts in the truck. The new ghost – the one they dug out of the creek – haunted her dreams. She was happy to have Chuck’s company. They started at John Deere, where Mr. Blyer behind the parts desk took down the information on the old tractor and promised to expedite an order for a new starter. Then they parked downtown, across from the movie theater, and walked to the ground-level storefront of Stuart King, attorney-at-law. “Would you come in with me?” Penny asked with pleading eyes.

“Sure. I wouldn’t want to leave you alone with old Stuart.” The lawyer wore a three-piece suit with a silk tie. His white hair and gold pocket watch completed the look of a gentleman from the 19th century. After some awkward small-talk and King’s expression of condolences, the lawyer handed each of them a copy of Gary Thompson’s last will and testament. It was not a complex document. When he finished explaining that Penny would inherit the farm and all her father’s other assets, she asked, “Is there anything in there about a deal to sell the farm to a real estate developer?” King shook a puzzled head. “No, nothing about anything like that, and he wouldn’t be able to do that anyway. His deal with the town required him to keep the farm until his death, or sell it to the town. Of course, now that you own the farm, you could sell it to a developer.” “What do you mean? I thought I could only sell to the town.” King looked up. “No, I’m very sure the restrictions on selling the property ended with Gary’s death. You own the property free and clear. The payments from the town for keeping the land undeveloped will continue as long as a family member satisfies the conditions of the open space deal, but if you want to sell, you can sell to anyone. Who told you otherwise?”

Don’t miss part 3 of the ten-part serial novella, Ghost Creek, from award-winning mystery author Kevin G. Chapman. Clich here to listen to the first two chapters! Kevin G. Chapman is an attorney specializing in labor and employment law and an independent author from New Jersey. In 2021, Kevin finished the first five books in the Mike Stoneman Thriller series. Righteous Assassin (Mike Stoneman Thriller #1), was named one of the top 20 Mystery/Thrillers of 2019 by the Kindle Book Review and was a finalist for the Chanticleer Book Review CLUE award. Deadly Enterprise (Mike Stoneman Thriller #2) was a top-20 Mystery/Thriller of 2020 according to the Kindle Book Review and made the Short-List for the 2020 CLUE Award. Book #3, Lethal Voyage, was the winner of the 2021 Kindle Book Award and a Finalist for the CLUE and for the InD’Tale Magazine RONE Award. Book #4 in the series, Fatal Infraction, was named Best Police Procedural of the year by the Chanticleer Book Review, and book #5 (Perilous Gambit) was published November 24, 2021. The Mike Stoneman Thriller series books are available through IngramSpark and bookshop.org. Dead Winner, a stand-alone mystery, was the winner of the CLUE Award for best suspense/thriller of 2022. Kevin’s next novel, The Other Murder, will be published in early 2024. Contact Kevin via his website at www.KevinGChapman.com. www.indtale.com

Did You Know? In 1929, author J.M. Barrie gifted his rights of Peter Pan to The Great Ormond Street Hospital in London. To this day, Mr. Barrie’s gift helps fund the hospital that treats ill children, as they receive royalties from every purchase of the Peter Pan book, and the plays and movies telling the story. What an incredible gift!

What Do You Think? Which of the following titles has been translated into the most languages?

D Andersen’s Fairy Tales by Hans Christian Andersen

D The Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling

D The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint Expuéry Click through to vote on the website! You'll find out the answer after you've placed your vote! Photo by Mathew Schwartz on Unsplash

continued from page 37

some really creepy, scary, unnerving stories that most of us will recognize. A lot are iconic. I’ll never eat fava beans or look at green pea soup the same. Luckily, I have memories of being a kid and reading some of these. So as the days grow shorter, the evenings darker, and Halloween crawls ever nearer, take a little time for yourselves and enjoy something different… Something to keep you awake all night. Just be careful when you wake up and see yourself in the mirror. That is pretty damn scary sometimes. 54

InD’Tale Magazine

GUIDE TO

Reviews Ratings We use a Standard 5-star Rating System EXCEPTIONAL EXCELLENT GOOD FAIR POOR CNF: If the problems in a book are such that a reviewer is unable to finish it, the book will be given to another reviewer to read. If both reviewers are unable to finish the book, it will receive the rating of “CNF” or “Could Not Finish” We also rate the "Steam" or sex factor so readers can enjoy whatever level they are most comfortable with.

The Criteria is as Follows Nothing but kisses

Passionate kissing,

Sex but the door is closed

Slightly steamy sex with some description

Steamy sex with somewhat graphic description

Those books receiving a 4.5 or a 5 star review will also be awarded the "Crowned Heart" for excellence. This symbol will be seen beside the review in the magazine. www.indtale.com

HISTORICAL

A Winter Wedding

Between the Sky and the Sea

Burning Embers

Sophia Templeworth is the youngest of four daughters—and the only one unmarried. Despite her mother’s attempts to change that, Sophia is quite alright with the lack of romance in her own personal life, and finds herself much happier spending her time in the stables and riding her brother-in-law’s horses. Devon Blake, Duke of Farnshire, spends the Christmas holidays with his friend and his friend’s wife’s family, including the mysterious Sophia. Sophia and Devon quickly find themselves drawn together while trying to provide a fun and loving holiday environment for Devon’s orphaned niece and nephew. Sophia finds herself caring not just for the children who desperately need a mother’s touch, but for their frustrating and attractive uncle. Believing it’s the perfect idea, Devon announces a betrothal—without asking Sophia to marry him first. Together they could have the kind of love neither of them ever expected, but first they must survive the courtship.

Lavinia Onslow is on board the Pulaski with her father. The year is 1838 and Lavinia happens to catch the attention of a young man who she comes to know as Daniel. One fateful night the Pulaski seems to have some trouble with the boiler, and it explodes, sinking the ship. Most of the passengers on board the Pulaski are drowned in the frigid waters, but Lavinia survives. As she struggles to stay afloat, almost despairing, someone finally jumps in and rescues her. For four days, Lavinia and Daniel float, surrounded by nothing but sea. They talk and get to know one another. All the while, Lavinia wonders whether her father is still alive or if he went down with the ship. In amongst worrying about her father, Lavinia’s interest in Daniel grows. There is something happening between the two of them as they wonder if they will ever be rescued.

The last granddaughter of Adam MacHeth, Affrica MacHeth, is at the center of change during Scotland’s tumultuous years between 1200 and 1235, including the Ross rebellion’s last MacHeth rise against the King of Scots. A sensitive girl, Affrica, sees the thoughts and intent of others, especially her brothers and cousins, by her tenth year. The young girl displayed her adventuresome and resilient attributes at a young age, smitten with the priest’s son, Ferchar Ruadri. He held the nickname of Maccintsacairt bestowed upon him by the unreasonably jealous Kenneth MacHeth whom he grew up with. Ferchar’s honesty and loyalty allowed him to attend school in Paris. He also captures the heart of young Affrica. The friendship between Affrica and Ferchar grows over time with a harrowing escape in Paris. She’s stunned when she learns they are after her, not Ferchar. He helps her evade capture and earns the everlasting gratitude of her father. The interweaving of complex Scottish turmoil and battles with relationships based on family ties, land, and power makes this a fascinating read. Affrica and Ferchar cross paths but choose different directions. Mary Lancaster masterfully pulls the threads together for the pair to discover their true destiny as foreseen. Fans of Scottish Historical Romance will remain glued to their Kindle as the story spills out. The vivid descriptions place readers inside the fortresses and among the wounded being tended. The non-stop action will cause the heart to stop and start at various intervals. Book three of the Last Flame of Alba trilogy is one no one should miss.

Nadine Millard

The author wraps up the last of four sisters’ stories in a fun and entertaining read that will keep the reader smiling and believing in happy ever after. Being the youngest sister and this being fourth book in no way leaves the reader feeling like this is an afterthought. This tale is well thought out, and the characters are defined and enjoyable. The book doesn’t linger overlong on characters that don’t help move the plot along, and characters like unwelcome suitors and nasty nannies are dealt with in an easy flowing way that brings results without wasting pages on too much negative drama. Any reader looking for a good classic romance between characters who never expected love to come their way is in for a rewarding time.

Lisa Williams Kline

"etween the Sky and the Sea" is a stirring adventure. The passionate feelings sparking between Lavinia and Daniel grow with each page as readers watch the two face a raft of troubles. Facing their struggles head on together allows the castaway couple to learn about each other more deeply. Lisa Williams Kline throws enough history in with the romance to pique the interest of the readers and keep them turning the pages as they wonder what will happen between Daniel and Lavinia. With a little more editing, “Between the Sky and the Sea” would be a romance for the ages making this a book no one could put down. Stephanie Bell

Mary Lancaster

Simone Dober

Valerie Vicars www.indtale.com

HISTORICAL

Entangled

His Enterprising Duchess

In Bed with a Blackguard

Rosamund has lost her faith in love and desires to leave her cold and stifling marriage to become an herbalist where she will be more useful. Major Giles Butler is on his way to rejoin Wellington’s army to defeat Napoleon when he runs across the Duke of Cuttyngham, a very opinionated man who insults Butler’s slain friend, Colonel Michael Landon. Butler loses his temper and tells the Duke what he thinks of him. Major Butler is then challenged to a duel which results in the duke’s death. Determined to contribute to the war before standing trial, Butler flees to the coast and runs into the Duchess of Cuttyngham, who is fleeing from her life. What will happen when she finds out Butler murdered her husband? "Entangled" is Book 1 in the Duel Book series and what an excellent beginning. It is a fun and engaging sweet Regency romance with enjoyable characters and entertaining story line. The characters are very charming and grow as the story progresses, especially Rosamund, who becomes a lot stronger and learns stands up for what she wants. Major Butler is an honorable man who has temper issues. Although he’s on the run, he still wants to do right by everyone—and also protect Rosamund. His fear that Rosamund will not want anything to do with him once she learns the truth about what happened to her husband is palpable. Although the reader will love the main characters, one may not feel a believable love connection between them as they feel more like close friends than lovers. Nevertheless, this is a delightful read that pulls the reader along the road to discovering happiness.

Two young lovers, a vicar’s daughter and a Duke’s son, are separated by lies, betrayal, the rules of society, and an ocean. Thea Fowler and Oliver Hawkins grew up in the countryside village of Thetford. When their friendship becomes intimate, he is sent away to Canada. Oliver promises to send for her, but he learns Thea married soon after he left. When Thea finds herself expecting, she goes to Oliver’s mother requesting her help only to be told he has married. Six years later, Oliver returns to Thetford a widower and father to four year old Simon. He learns his older brother is dead and his father is soon to follow, thereby making him an Earl and soonto-be Duke. Thea has established herself as a hostess of a respectable inn while taking care of her widowed, impoverished mother. Contrary to gossip and rumors, neither wishes to have anything to do with the other, if only they could stay away from one another.

Victoria Zumbrum

Tonya Mathenia

After being recruited and trained to be a lady knight in service to Her Majesty Queen of England, Jacquetta Lawson, a beautiful, incomparable debutante, is more than meets the eye. She is assigned a mission to learn the secrets of the infamous Lord Grayson Thane. As the second son to a duke, Grayson’s fall from society’s grace is cloaked in mystery. He’s been ordered to kidnap the debutante and deliver her to his boss in Barbados. Their voyage to the islands becomes a test of wills, ending in a tidal wave of passion which leads them both to put their secrets, new found love, and lives on the line to escape Grayson’s brutal kingpin master, Delaurier. A sexy, seafaring adventure, "In Bed With a Blackguard" is filled with heat, humor, and danger! Both Jacquetta and Grayson are strong main characters with a scorching chemistry. The Lady Knights and the crew aboard the Agamemnon are delightful secondary characters who are integral to the storyline, with great potential for stories of their own. Though the malevolent Delaurier’s part is small within the actual story, he is a constant, dark presence of danger readers will feel throughout the story. The sea voyage and island landscape are described with engaging detail to transport readers. Although there are a few pronoun and name discrepancies; the quick-fire banter, steamy love scenes, and amusing characters manage to provide more than enough of distraction to those little blips. Cara Maxwell introduces her new Lady Knights series with a cast of intriguing characters readers will definitely want to sail along with as they face their fears, fulfill their missions, and plunge into the depths of love.

Mary Lancaster

Peri Maxwell

"His Enterprising Duchess" is a story of betrayal, loss, love, and second chances. Readers will be charmed by a precocious four year old and his menagerie of pets. The villagers, servants, and gentry will provide readers a yearning for gentler times. Readers will root for the unrequited love of two people kept apart by betrayal. The insidious and treacherous villains are perfect for readers to rile against. The descriptions of the picturesque villages and other landscapes will deliver readers to cobblestone roads, country inns, and aging woods. Ms. Maxwell’s angst-filled story of an enterprising woman and the man who loves her will take readers on a journey of perseverance and fulfillment.

Cara Maxwell

Tonya Mathenia 58

InD’Tale Magazine

REVIEW CATEGORY

HISTORICAL

Lady Beast’s Bridegroom

Lyon at the Altar Lily Harlem

Sharon E. Cathcart

Lady Ariel was scarred for life in a fire when she was younger, losing her mother and brother at the same time. She now is retired and lives in the country, away from prying eyes. Society has dubbed her Lady Beast, and she wears a mask when she goes out. When Ariel’s father dies, her second cousin inherits his title, leaving the wealth to his only daughter. Now her second cousin wants all her father’s wealth and plots to have Ariel committed so he can steal it from her. Lady Ariel needs to marry so her husband can protect her from her greedy cousin. Peter, Lord Ransome, inherits his father’s debts, a stepmother, and her daughters and stepsisters. He needs to marry for money in order to take care of all his obligations. A marriage of convenience turns into so much more than Lady Ariel and Lord Ransome ever imagined.

Anna Toussaint meets Frank Webb, heir to a viscountcy, when her mother becomes his governess to teach him the French language. Frank insists that Anna learn with him. Young love blossoms as the two teens grow closer until scandal erupts. Two years later, Frank is a viscount. He has no interest in the women his mother parades before him, his memories full of Anna, the girl he’d loved and lost. Anna, meanwhile, is working as a seamstress at the infamous Lyon’s Den. Then one night, she is the prize for whichever gentleman wins in a card game. When Frank and Anna come face to face at the altar, the emotions are strong. Anna has no intention of being a willing wife, but Frank is certain he can rekindle the feelings they once had. Can Anna and Frank build a life from the ashes of their first love? "Lyon at the Altar" is a steamy, sensual romance that takes the spark of young love and fans it into the flames of adult passion! Anna is sweet, innocent, and transparent in her feelings. Frank is a young man caught in his first taste of love and lust. Anna’s anger at Frank takes up a good portion of the story, and there are many questions such as why Frank didn’t show greater backbone to find Anna and make things right. The plot is light, and sex dominates many of the scenes. Conflicts are resolved due to outside events rather than through character actions or dialogue. "Lyon at the Altar" is an entertaining entry in the Lyon’s Den Connected World that will satisfy longtime fans!

Drusilla and Suetonius locked eyes as youngsters in a Roman marketplace. She was headed to being pawned off on a family friend while her father went to start a tavern in hopes of wealth. He was on his way to be trained as a gladiator after being sold into slavery. They would later meet again in Pompeii and fall in love. Stephanie and Damiano locked eyes during a tourist excursion where she was visiting, and he impersonates a gladiator for a charity for stray dogs. They would meet again when Dom spots Stephanie eating in his cousin’s ristorante. He buys her dinner and the two become inseparable during her two week stay as a travel writer. One couple deals with tradition and jealous machinations as their world literally comes to an end, while the other couple deals with a long distance relationship in a post-pandemic world.

Jude Knight

"Lady Beast’s Bridegroom" is Regency twist on the fairytale, Beauty and the Beast. It is a beautiful love story that shows the reader that beauty is found deep within, and not by what a person looks like. Jude Knight has create a beautiful story that takes place during the Regency time period and shows the brutal and honest truth about how a disfigured woman was treated—even after being married. The author has created very strong and complex characters. The reader will love Lady Ariel, who, despite everything she has been through, has a very kind, gentle, and giving heart. Lord Ransome is a kind and caring man who will do anything for the people he loves. Readers will love the connection Ariel and Ransome have, and how he loves her for whom she is. "Lady Beast’s Bridegroom" is Book 1 in A Twist Upon a Regency Tale, and is a brilliant and beautiful start to a new series. Victoria Zumbrum 60

InD’Tale Magazine

Tricia Hill

Pompeii Fire

"Pompeii Fire" is a love story novella about the fierce passion of soulmates that traverses tragedy, time, and distance. Readers who enjoy a little poetical license mixed with historical data will turn the pages with glee. However some readers may find it hard to stumble through the historical references and foreign languages throughout the story, even though there is a glossary provided. The ancient story is the most prominent tale, filled with hints of gladiator action, historical accounts of Italian slavery, and a treacherous, greedy villain easy to hate. The contemporary story is very romantic, a little steamy, yet a tad predictable, even with the sporadic mentions of COVID-19 and its aftermath. Ms. Cathcart manages to wrap two small love stories with a historical twist— and a faithful dog, too. Tonya Mathenia

REVIEW HISTORICAL CATEGORY

Portrait of a Duke

Rescued by a Rake

Stealing the Duke

Lady Margaret Townsend is a true artist at heart. Openly independent and outspoken, never planning to marry, she wishes to be the portrait artist of the ton since her late grandmother’s talent was ruthlessly denied by her husband. Having met the young Lord Daniel Bowning, later the Duke of Westfield, when he came to call on her sister, she then paints him from memory. Her sister Dolley marries and becomes a marchioness but later wants the duke for herself. The Dowager Duchess of Westfield knew Margaret’s late grandmother well and commissions a portrait painted by Margaret. The painting is a grand success amongst the ton and Margaret’s career is launched, but will it get in the way of her love for Daniel, or can Margaret have both her true loves?

Miss Lucy Beresford waited patiently for six years for her bridegroom to finally take her to the altar as promised. However, her patience has run out, and she travels to London to force his hand. Unfortunately, the groom is missing and Lucy’s only chance to find him is with his best friend, a notorious rake, Lord Montague. Monty is also worried about his absent friend, but allowing his friend’s fragile fiancée to track the man is hardly his first choice. But the longer the pair work together to track their errant friend and groom, the more Monty begins to see the appeal of the shy and plain lady, and the more they both wonder if a lady and a rake might make the better match.

Lady Joanna "Jo" Mabry loves and borrows books from other society members’ personal libraries. When Jo is invited to the home of James Huntington, the Duke of Northwick’s, she discovers his coveted book collection. She is awed by the number of books the duke has and decides to find a book she can abscond with. Jo spies a book titled "Educating the Female Species" which sparks her curiosity, so she takes it. James adores his library. When he notices a book is missing, he wonders who took it. Whoever did will quickly realize it’s not an educational book but hiding another titled inside: the "Illustrated Pleasures of Seduction." James suspects that it might be Jo who took his book and finds this highly humorous, because when she finds out what the book is about she might regret taking it after all. This is such a rollicking, humorous, enjoyable book—simply enchanting! There could have been more to the thievery and "using" the tome, but the story still sticks to the mores and ideals of the period. "Stealing the Duke" might not seem original, especially since it seems based on a familiar classic, but Ms. Post brings her own unique spin to the tale which doesn’t make a mockery of the much-loved story but gives it new life. Jo is similar to her American counterpart, yet manages to be a strong-willed, feisty heroine that is instantly appealing. James, the bibliophile hero, pales in comparison, even though he is perfectly swoon-worthy and a fantastic book hero. This Regency-inspired "Little Women" is truly a delight!

Alexa Aston

An enthralling, hard to put down tale. Meeting at the tender age of 15 when Daniel comes to call on her sister, Margaret is immediately enthralled with the arrogant young man. Growing up ostracized by her mother and sister for her looks only makes Margaret more appealing to all those around her because it solidifies her strong personality, sharp intellect, and resistance to fitting into the molds of society. Between the Dowager Duchess of Westfield and Margaret, Daniel never stands a chance of forcing Margaret into the ton’s mold of an ideal wife for a Duke. Margaret’s strong, intelligent character never backs down and breaks the stereotypes of the age, putting the duke sufficiently in his place and challenging him at every turn. It is also touching to see the Dowager encourage Margaret to set her own rules for Polite Society as the new Duchess.

Cheryl Bolen

A mix of historical romance and adventure leads two different people on a path of a missing man that takes them across the country, investigating potential espionage, and avoiding ruining reputations! As a couple, Monty and Lucy are a slightly unusual pair. Though she is an heiress and he is a lord, their interactions outside a typical ballroom and with Lucy’s engagement to another between them give their budding feelings a different take than the typical story of this genre. That said, while there is action, espionage, and political intrigue, they are all light and easily dealt with, and the romance is predictable. Overall, readers who want a slightly different format for their Regency romance but with a guaranteed happily ever after should give this book a look! Sarah McEachron

Lexi Post

Roslynn Ernst

Amy Rubottom

www.indtale.com

REVIEW CATEGORY HISTORICAL

Teasing Miss Atherby Sandra Sookoo

The Canary

Kristy McCaffrey

The Duke’s Shield

Distant cousin to the Winterbournes, Luisa Atherby has come to London looking to strengthen her familial ties after the tragic death of her parents. While helping move furniture within her cousin’s London townhouse, she encounters a secret desk drawer holding old love letters which reveal a scandalous secret that may tear apart her new found family. Retired Major Hugh Pritchard has been pondering his life’s journey very much of late. Wondering if his romantic life will always end in failure after his past overtures were rejected twice, and his last infatuation caused him to be accidentally shot by his best friend. Separately deciding a turn through Hyde’s Park will bring clarity, the two renew their acquaintance when they run into one another. Their immediate attraction becomes a teasing flirtation leading to a whirlwind romance leaving each to wonder if change is a good thing. Filled with flirtatious banter and very risqué behavior, "Teasing Miss Atherby" is a steamy, clutch-the-pearls, historical romance adventure. The two main characters are immediately shown to be not so mainstream in their feelings about life, and when they meet the sparks don’t just fly, they soar! The quick-fire sexual tension is described in some of the most proper yet incendiary language that readers will require a fan to keep from catching fire. Secondary characters from each family are pivotal to the plot as they assist and agitate the lovebirds. The language author Sandra Sookoo uses to tell this high-speed, no holds barred romp to a whirlwind happy ever after makes "Teasing Miss Atherby" a superbly sensual and sensationally fun story. Like a decadent piece of chocolate, one can only savor and then desire more. Yummy!

Dr. Jack Brenner takes a trip into the Painted Desert to locate his missing father and make amends after his mother’s death. At the same time, college student Sarah Ryan goes to assist Dr. Allan Brenner digging for fossils. Sarah’s benefactor, Helen Parks, paid for the expedition but expects Sarah to become a spy. Forced into a quick and fake marriage so Sarah can accompany the expedition, she and Jack encounter a mass of others also looking for Dr. Allan Brenner in the Painted Desert. The race is on to find both the most extraordinary fossils in the Painted Desert and the elder Dr. Brenner. Will Sarah and Jack’s rushed marriage out west work out or will it become extinct? Will the fossil evidence they seek be found or will it be destroyed?

The duke’s family is under attack from an old family enemy, Lord Chellenham. Michael O’Malley is part of the duke’s guard assigned to protect Viscount Chattsworth, his viscountess, their newborn son, and the surrounding estate, which includes the widow Mrs. Harriet Mayfield’s farm. Harriet or Harry to her friends, lost her husband to a great fever, so she and her son, Bart, now manage the work of the farm together. The outlying farms are being targeted by Lord Chellenham’s blackguards, barns are being burned and men are being shot. Will the farms survive the onslaught, and will Michael and Harry have their shot at love, or will Lord Chellenham win in his revenge plot. Will Harry’s pride and stubbornness get in the way of her second chance at love?

Tonya Mathenia

InD’Tale Magazine

Puzzles, intrigue, danger, twists and turns along with the love story make this book a page turner. The paleontology theme was well explained and not too overwhelming, while the connection between Jack and Sarah takes flight through the pages. Kristy McCaffrey captures the evolution of marrying a stranger well through the process of Jack and Sarah’s becoming acquainted, sharing their love of paleontology, and eventually developing strong feelings for one another. Strong female characters dominated this book although most of the characters are male. The political struggle over fossil hunting is riveting and provides even more intrigue and danger to the story and adds an interesting twist to the tale. All the characters are well developed and lovely to follow through the dirt and dust in the western setting. This book stands well on its own for a series. Amy Rubottom

C.H. Admirand

As the third book in a series, this one stands well on its own. The characters pop through the pages. Readers will root for Michael & Harry’s love story and the demise of the evil Lord Chellenham. This tale delivers a captivating mix of romance, intrigue, danger, drama, and delight. It is heartening that each character rises to meet various daunting challenges and overcomes adversity. The theme of banding together to be stronger allowa all of them to win their fights. Watching Michael and Bart bond over trying to get through to Harry over her stubborn behavior is enchanting. Loving a prideful, independent, and stubborn woman is never easy as Michael is learning, but his love and patience for her is wonderful to watch unfold from the first spark of interest to the hot flames of passion. A page turning delight to read. Amy Rubottom

HISTORICAL

The Governess Diaries

Thoroughly Seduced

Vindicated by a Viscount

Euphemia "Effie" Darrow has put her all into creating the Darrow School, a place for girls like her—the illegitimate and pushed aside. The school is a place for girls to learn to take care of themselves and do so without needing a man, as Effie did. However, now a man Effie fell in love with as a girl has returned to her life. Nicholas Montford, a spy working to protect the crown, is now the heir to the dukedom of Clarenden, as his father’s only surviving son. Nicholas is enchanted by Effie when he returns, but once she discovers Nicholas has fathered and abandoned his child, Alexandra, she decides she cannot be with him. However, Nicholas has enemies everywhere, and with even a whiff of Nick’s feelings in their senses, Effie could be in danger. Will the couple survive their obstacles and enemies? This story carries its weight in drama and beloved romance, keeping readers invested from the get-go with this brilliant plotline. However, it becomes harder to attach to the story if one hasn’t read the other books in the series. Specific scenes and characters referencing the previous books may confuse readers who did not read them. The main characters have such a perfect depth to them though, and the author makes the female character much more likable with her empowering and stubborn qualities that are nice to cling onto. Keeping track of the timeline as readers jump back and forth between the diaries, flashbacks, and main storyline can be difficult as well. However, this second-chance romance is still mesmerizing, harnessing just enough mystery and danger to keep readers constantly wanting more.

Birdie Darley is on a mission to find who is stealing the horses. In amongst this mystery, she doesn’t expect to fall for someone who she dislikes and who dislikes her. However, though she might be falling for this man, she is still not sure who is stealing the horses. For all she knows, it could be this man, Ten, who is stealing the horses—while also stealing her heart. In the back of her mind, she knows they are attracted to each other. He seems to not want anything to do with her, but the little things Ten does for her show her otherwise. Will Birdie Darley and Ten succumb to their feelings while trying to solve the mystery behind who is stealing the horses? Or will they both continue to dislike each other and move on with their lives after the mystery is solved?

Georgiana Beresford comes from a large family of beautiful women, and she is no exception. She, however, is determined never to marry without love. That is why even she is surprised when a chance encounter with a chivalrous man leaves her with complete assurance that love at first sight is alive and real. And, although she is unaware, the same could be said of her rescuer, Viscount Charles Churstan. That is a very good thing because someone is determined to destroy Georgiana’s reputation, and the only way to salvage it is to marry the dashing Charles. Unfortunately, when thwarted, the unknown villain increases the spurious accusations until it becomes imperative that the person must be found and stopped—but at what cost? As the crimes deepen, the fearless couple find they are playing with a very deadly nemesis indeed!

Chasity Bowlin

Austen Grace

InD’Tale Magazine

Chantry Dawes

"Thoroughly Seduced" is the fourth book within the Aldbey Park Series, but it can be read as a standalone. It’s romance, mystery, adventure with a little history thrown in. Fans of historical romance will get a little of everything with this romantical tale. Chantry Dawes throws just enough of a history lesson in with the romance to keep her readers interested. The descriptive imagery portrayed in this easy read shows the readers how much passion the two main characters have for each other throughout the story, making this a read for anyone who is looking for a light romance. Fans of Chantry Dawes are sure to fulfill their romantic adventure desires with this wonderful read! Stephanie Bell

Cheryl Bolen

For anyone who loves a quick, dreamy romp without having to dig too deeply, this may be just the story! It is filled with an innocent kind of love where the couple are completely bowled over immediately and see no one more perfect that the other in every way. For those who require a bit more depth and understanding, or even a little more realistic view, however, this story might be quite a challenge, as there is naught but starry-eyed prose to solidify the relationship. Still, the secondary characters add a bit of warmth in family and friendship, the writing is smooth, and the chase to uncover and find the villain is lots of fun! Ruth Lynn Ritter

HISTORICAL

CONTEMPORARY

Where the Thistle Grows

A Home For Christmas

Christmas in the Air

Caitriona Murray has been obsessed with the ancient tales of the legendary Pict King Brodyn and his unnamed wife for ages. She has even seen him in her dreams. When she joins an archaeological excavation in the caves of Scotland, she is finally moments away from a great discovery. In fact, she believes that the cave they’ve chosen to explore is none other than the burial site of King Brodyn. As she explores the cave, she finds herself transported through time. Lost in an unfamiliar place, she is surprised to stumble upon the man of her dreams. The blood-rushing romance, whiplash of emotions, and teeth-chattering ending of "Where the Thistle Grows" creates a perfect storm that is unputdownable! At first, the novel follows the same age-old trope of time-travel and unexpected love; however, Mia Pride incorporates several key twists that give it a whole new meaning. In a world where the storyline could easily be lost to the complexity of time, Mia Pride weaves a beautiful tale of love. As the storyline progresses, the ending seems obvious; however, in the last quarter of the novel each page contains unexpected twists and turns that unravel to reveal the heart-felt ending. The way that each character is tied together with clear purpose gives the story depth that it couldn’t have otherwise. Even the smallest of side characters comes with a significant task of melding all the pieces together. King Brodyn and Caitriona Murray’s tale may not have a perfect beginning, but their story is both heart-warming and heart-wrenching.

Jackie Hobbs is grieving. While working abroad, she receives word that her mother has been in an accident. Unable to return in time, Jackie is dreading holidays without her only family member. But in accordance with her mother’s last wishes, she reluctantly travels to Sugar Creek, Vermont, to spend the holidays as her mother had originally planned. Austin Fletcher is surprised and captivated by the kind-hearted woman who comes to stay in one of his family’s cabin rentals. His efforts to lead her on a special scavenger hunt and give her letters from her mother begin to not only help Jackie with her grief, but stir desires of his own. With Jackie’s loss so fresh and new, Austin is sure she wouldn’t be interested in what he has to offer, but the more time they spend together, the more he begins to wonder if she might be his own Christmas miracle.

Penelope Reid is terrified of flying and attempting to ignore her terror, she babbles her life story and a ton of her inner secrets to her seat mate, assuming she’d never see him again. Except, it turns out something about the single mother in her late 40s appeals to the doctor beside her, and two months later, Jacob Williams arrives in the town of Roses as the new pediatrician. Hurt by former relationships gone south, both Penelope and Jacob are slow to pursue the attraction between them. However, as Penelope attempts to raise her son and embrace the spirit of the holidays, she finds herself falling for the intriguing doctor, and the offer of a second chance romance that waits if only she’s willing to claim it. A sweet and quick holiday romance, Penelope and Jacob are two hurt people who are attracted to one another and yet fearful of making a mistake a second time. The story alternates between their perspectives as they draw toward and then away from one another over the course of several weeks. While the attraction between the pair is established early, the story is disrupted at times by the sudden emotional whiplashes, the alternating POVs, and a few rushed or hastily tied up sub-plots with Jacob’s family. That said, Penny and Jacob have depth and show growth as the story continues. Their interactions with one another and with Penny’s son feel realistic with all their flaws and improvements. Overall, readers looking for second chance romance will find it to be an easy read with a satisfying conclusion.

Mia Pride

Sadie Wilson

River Ford

An incredibly heart wrenching holiday tale, "A Home for Christmas" is the book lovers of Hallmark and contemporary romance need to read! Jackie’s emotions are palpable, and her efforts to embrace her mother’s last wishes are both believable in her reluctance and heartwarming in their effect. Austin is so charming and yet flawed as his devotion to his family holds him back from making a necessary move. Their romance together is incredibly sweet and is encouraged by a delightful cast of townsfolk, as well as Austin’s own family. The only real flaw in the tale is how Austin’s problems are resolved by his family instead of himself. That said, the story is well done to the point readers will find themselves either looking up the next book in the Seasons of Sugar Creek series and finding out what happens to the next Fletcher sibling! Delightful from start to finish!

Josie Riviera

Sarah McEachron

Sarah McEachron www.indtale.com

Memorable Lines of the Month Every month we’re highlighting some lines that stood out to our reviewers from the books in this issue…

“You never know what insecurities live within another person.” From Pompeii Fire by Sharon E. Cathcart

“Chocolate can never be evil.” From Teasing Miss Atherby by Sandra Sookoo

“I wasn’t there when you needed me most.” “This is when I need you most. Right now.” From Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade

“She was in love with him, but Brett was a wounded warrior, inside and out.” From Burning Justice by Tee O’Fallon

“Maman,” I whispered into her ear, caressing her cheek. “Don’t go, don’t leave. I did not mean it. Please.” From At What Cost, Silence? by Karen Lynne Klink

REVIEW CONTEMPORARY CATEGORY

How to Spot a Fake

Influence

Take a Chance

Rachelle Paige Campbell

Peggy Jaeger

Heather B. Moore

Lovelyn Pettigrew and John Smith are from two different worlds. Love has grown up in luxury in a prominent family. When her beloved grandmother passes and leaves her art collection to Love, Love wants to preserve their shared love of art by opening a museum in her family home. Love’s parents want to protect her and don’t trust that she is making the best or safest decisions. Her parents prefer a museum in the city with a prestigious curator to run the show, leaving Lovelyn with little control. With one week to prove her plan capable of success,s Love contacts the wrong John Smith to help her in her quest. John is a struggling art student just shy of a degree who shares Love’s passion for art. He may be the wrong John Smith, but he could also be just the John Smith she needs in every area of her life. John and Love have a good chemistry, though it’s sometimes broken by each character’s internal dialogue of unworthiness and low self-esteem. However, the plot and characters are well thought out and intertwined. Some of the supporting characters, like Henry, has a character development arc that is hard to accept. John and Love are both seeking acceptance and are scared to expose their vulnerabilities. They seemed to make sudden changes without the development being shown. Some development of characters throughout rather than a sudden change of heart at the end for all the characters would have been preferred. Even so, this sweet romance is filled with tender moments, friendly banter, and warm friendships. A clean wholesome read romance fans will enjoy.

Lizzy Cray, brand influencer, is at the peak of her fame… only she isn’t real. Mackenzie Craymore, the real name behind the face, has pushed forward after disappearing from the limelight twelve years prior when her fiancé, Lucky Blumenthal, died in a tragic car accident. Now she hides behind her false persona, and avoids all interviews about her past. But when she runs into Dominick "Nick" Templeton, her entire world is compromised. Immediately swept off her feet by his charm, Mackenzie lets down her guard before she realizes Nick is just on the warpath to learn about her past—but as Nick gets to know her, he feels a spark between them he can’t deny. Will Mackenzie let her guard down enough to allow herself be with Nick? Prepare to go down the slippery slope into the romance rabbit hole, because everything about this novel radiates chemistry and charm while following the winding path of the enemies-to-lovers trope to a tee. The author has a captivating writing style with great descriptions that will always keep one interested. Readers learn a lot about Mackenzie’s background, but are left wanting more from Nick’s backstory. There’s a huge plot twist in the middle of the book that no one will see coming, which is not only shocking, but keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the end. Nick’s character is a bit harder to like since he starts off as a bit of a stalker, but further along, the reader will learn to love him. Get ready for this book to sweep you off your feet into this tragic, city-life-centric romance!

Lane Prosper is alone on graduation day and finds himself in the campus music hall listening to a determined pianist practice her piece. Before he realizes it, she approaches him and invites him to watch her perform at the upcoming concert. Unfortunately, Lane is heading home to Texas. He’s ready to find the career of his dreams. With a ticking timeline to Lane’s departure, Lane and Ava kindle an undeniable romance. Lane is surprised at his attraction to this woman in that he’s known for only going on one date and never pursuing a second. Ava has him wanting more. His challenge is whether he’ll go home knowing he should have taken a chance on the woman he was meant to meet. The theme of taking chances weaves well throughout the entire story. The romance of Ava and Lane and their time together is sweet and each character is well written. However, the urgency for Ava and Lane to be alone together in such a short period of time may cause concern in believability. Lane’s choices about his career may come across as a weak man of decisions for someone described as a physically strong man. At times, the Texas drawls and mannerisms may be found as overly sterotypical. The town and Lane’s family have an enduring sense about them that adds more to Lane’s story, but not as much to Ava’s. Ava’s amazing music abilities are a huge plus and described beautifully. Taking a Chance will attract those who love a sweet romance with a twist of music and charm.

Austen Grace

Moira Wolf

Cara Ceislak

www.indtale.com

CONTEMPORARY

PARANORMAL

The Heart of Holiday

Bitten by Suprise Lizzy Gayle

Alianne Donnelly

After fourteen years of hard work, Caroline is on the brink of achieving her goal of becoming a cardiac surgeon. Finally, she can help families deal with the diseases that caused the kind of loss her family suffered when she was only nine years old. All that changes when a lastminute visit home to see her parents turns into her worst nightmare. In the blink of an eye, Caroline finds herself thrust into witness protection and all the dreams she chased are left behind, along with her old life. Now, Caroline finds she doesn’t even have the comfort of her own name in her new world. She is now Carol, a librarian in the small town of Holiday, Alabama, and life no longer bears any resemblance to the one she used to know. While Caroline finds herself slowly opening herself to her new reality, and what her future might hold, the town of Holiday is finding they can’t imagine a town without having her as a part of it.

Dr. Charlotte Devaux has been trying to develop a cure for vampirism. The younger daughter of a witch mother and a scientist father, she has been pursuing this dream since her father was involuntarily turned into a vampire. On the eve of Char’s exciting research breakthrough, her GDK5 formula is stolen, and her assistant kidnapped. To her horror, vampires start dying from a previously unknown weapon, nicknamed GoDKiller, shortly afterwards, and Char suspects that her formula may be the culprit. Enemies suddenly take an interest in her hidden abilities, but handsome Lieutenant Julian Carver rescues her and offers Char the job of her dreams. She’ll use science to help him protect innocent supernaturals. Can Char overlook the fact that her hot new boss is himself a vamp? "Bitten by Surprise" is like a pair of tall stiletto boots that are enchanted to wear like slippers: sexy, stylish, and fun. Char has a strong conscience and plenty of resolve. She wants to prove that science and magic can complement rather than oppose each other. Her research aims to give supernaturals a choice to reverse what has been done to them. Char’s goals align with Julian’s, except that he has an unusual protectiveness toward her. He even hints at their intimate history in a previous life! Is Char the reincarnation of his lost mate? Lizzy Gayle’s characters are delightful and well-crafted, with undeniable chemistry. While Char and Julian make a great team in taking down the perpetrators of the GoDKiller murders, readers will have to wait to find out if this couple will act on their sizzling romantic bond.

SCI-FI: Two decades ago he gave her hope, then the next day broke her heart by choosing to become a monster of war. Young telepathic Laura has loved her childhood crush, Finn, forever. Once they share their first kiss, Finn realizes he has strong feelings for Laura as well. When the insidious Shadows recruit him, in spite of her desperate pleas to stay with her, he chooses to rebuke her, leave with them, and wage galactic war on telepaths. Finn returns after the war, to find Laura and accept her punishment, hoping to make amends for breaking her heart. Laura, now married and in charge of a group of ravaged war survivors she considers family is angry at Finn’s sudden arrival, but realizes he may be the key to saving her family from a maniacal tyrant and also provide the reason he didn’t choose her. "Shadow Hawk" delivers a science fiction story portraying war’s devastating aftermath, the resiliency of the human spirit, and a romance to boot. Readers get a great combination of characters who bring a drawn out plot to life: star-crossed lovers who must decide to overcome their issues, a sacrificing hero who pulls heartstrings, a humorous, rag-tag group of survivors, and last but not least, a villain straight out of the book of Bad Guys 101. Then throw in the familiar futuristic technology and telepathy for a hint of sci-fi. The beginning gives some backstory, the middle delivers a little heat and action, and the ending is a dunh-dunh-dunh typical cliffhanger. Ms. Donnelly’s tale of betrayal and war takes readers on a dark flight of love and second chances.

Michele Paige Holmes

The author has eloquently blended the elements of small-town fiction, a love story, and a story of loss into something amazing that will leave readers just as invested in the triumphs of Caroline’s life as the rest of the town has become. This story is truly a gift of love, loss, and finding your way again, and is a must read for anyone looking for a reminder that loss is always there, but so are new beginnings and the chances to find something that you never knew was out there. This is a heart-warming journey that is a real can’t miss read. Absolutely delightful from start to finish. Valerie Vicars

Shadow Hawk

Joan Lai

InD’Tale Magazine

Tonya Mathenia

URBAN FANTASY

YOUNG ADULT

SUSPENSE/THRILLER

Fangs for the Bite

Generation Annihilation

A Pride of Brothers: Dylan

Rebel, a half fae, half witch, oversees an academy for delinquent teenage vampires. As if that weren’t difficult enough for her already, things take a turn for the worse when the vampire librarian at the academy, Professor Goreson, is murdered. Rebel is now on the hunt to find the killer and make the academy safe again. But Onyx, a vampire who is practically second in command at the academy, is making things difficult for her. He is very persistent in his attempts to remove her from the school. Despite the growing sexual tension between the pair, they decide to work together to try to uncover the mysterious killer. They are surrounded by paranormal creatures with bad intentions, so how in the world will they discover the true murderer?

SUSPENSE/THRILLER: Shaun Treadway is a 17-year-old boy who is used to being in trouble. Shaun adores his mother, and has tried many times to protect her from her abusive husband. When her husband’s latest beating lands her in the hospital, Shaun has had enough and sets fire to their home while the husband is drunk and passed out. Shaun flees to his grandfather’s abandoned cabin in Blackthorn Peak, West Virginia. Blackthorn Peak turns out to be completely deserted— except for the Blackthorn Peak Insane Asylum. While checking out the town, Shaun meets Cass and sees others at the Asylum. But when he ventures inside to find out why the asylum is housing the only form of life in town, what he learns changes his life forever.

Kirkpatick Industries is a high tech gaming company and currently employs Harper Vale. She’s been working on a top-secret project, along with her team of four others. The owner believes there is a leak in his company and hires the Brothers Inc. team to do a thorough investigation and uncover the mole doing harm from the inside. Dylan is the brother with the most cyber tech knowledge, so he’s the one that’s undercover as the new guy at KI. He has his sights set on the team of five, and he starts his dig with Harper. Getting to know her on a personal level and worming into her world is his plan. Can he uncover the responsible party before more leaks occur, or will he lose his professional decorum and fall for the one he’s scrutinizing?

Jo-Ann Carson

"Fangs for the Bite" is a very fastpaced and enjoyable paranormal romance. While it is part of a six book series, it can be read as a standalone, though readers will be left wanting more from these characters, with their witty banter and laugh-out-loud moments. The slow-burn romance and the action-packed scenes that follow will surely keep the readers on the edge of their seats. Throughout the book there are several grammatical errors that can be a bit annoying, but the story itself is so engaging that they can be overlooked pretty easily. The ending of the story leaves some questions unanswered and will keep readers wanting more from these awesome characters. This action-packed paranormal romance filled with witches, vampires, werewolves, and so much more, is truly a fun and exciting ride! Jennifer Shepherd

Tracy Hewitt Meyer

Trigger warning as this book deals with issues of physical abuse, sexual abuse, mental illness, and suicide. This suspenseful novel is full of twists and turns! Although Shaun becomes a murderer early on, which he does in defense of his mom, he is relatable and easy to connect to as a hero. Though dark and sinister activities abound, it is easy to see how the twisted thinking came to be. The characters are easy to relate to and the villains have full back stories to help the reader connect with who they are, and why their actions make sense. This is a tale filled with ample suspense and twists too good to give away! This first in the series is a suspense-filled ride fans won’t want to miss! Cara Ceislak

Peggy Jaeger

Ms. Jaeger launches another hit installment in the Pride of Brothers series! Book number four has a focus on Dylan, however, the band of brothers and their respective partners all make appearances throughout. This very much stands alone, but really… readers need to binge them all! This dynamic wordsmith has produced a great rhythm within this story; a true treat matched with the highly suspenseful drama is hold-on-to-your-hat awesomeness! The family dynamics and emotional trauma that Harper has endured is thoughtfully written and is delicately addressed. The strong-willed heroine who finds her perfect hero match makes for a schmashing time, and a creatively crafted meet-cute! (Possible triggers: cutting and adoption issues). Absolute perfection! Viola Robbins

www.indtale.com

SUSPENSE/THRILLER

Beautiful Dangerous

Bee Conspiracy

Burning Justice

Hannah Patel is a Public Defender in Philadelphia, and is quite good at her job. One of her latest clients received a guilty verdict… Hannah was cold-cocked; she received a black eye along with a couple days off. Her solace is rowing. She’s athletic and strong, and often goes solo. When a mysterious note appears on her windshield she’s alarmed, knowing she’s being watched. A co-worker sees the note, and suggests she should speak to a friend who may be able to help her situation. Doyle Murphy is currently on a self-imposed hiatus from his SVU day to day job. He’s very good at criminal profiling; however, when his promise to protect another fails, he’s unsure if helping Hannah is a good idea. Can he get back in the game or should he swear off law enforcement for good? "Beautiful Dangerous" is fast paced, high drama suspense. Ms. Flade knows exactly how to grab readers’ attention from the start! The main characters earn reader’s admiration, and both play large hero and heroine roles. The family dynamics and supporting characters are a major add to the plot and the flow of the story. The love and respect that Hannah and Doyle have towards family is a treat. This is book four in the Philly Heat series and does stand-alone, however many characters make reappearances and have woven connections throughout each book. There are many aspects to this thriller, and each is regarded thoughtfully and all are concluded eloquently. Becky Flade pens with such descriptive details that readers are given a front row seat to her magic printed on the pages!

Detective "Duke" Wayne has been stuck working at his desk at LAPD for too long. He is trying his hardest to find a way to start working back out in the field but has so far been unsuccessful. Until one day, his Captain asks him to do a Field Investigation Report on what is believed to be an accidental death by bees. After taking a look at the scene, things may be more sinister than he ever could have imagined. Now the Detective must work with Kelso Bagley, a Special Agent with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services, to attempt to uncover the truth of what’s happened. But can they solve the mystery before anyone else gets hurt or even killed? "Bee Conspiracy" is a very unique story, and it is very apparent that there was a lot of research done in order to present distinctive ideas and concepts throughout it. While the story’s pacing is rather slow, the general ideas are great, and readers have probably never read anything quite like this before. The beginning of the story is very much an attention grabber and will pull readers in immediately. The characters are not fleshed out as well as they could have been, which may leave readers wanting more backstory on them. But overall, this story is out of the ordinary in terms of thriller novels, and the way that the murders take place. With a little bit of romance that blends nicely with the mystery and science, readers will be all abuzz about this thriller!

Gemma Stone is an insurance investigator in Colorado, a transplant from Brooklyn, New York. Her family owns and runs a deli, and it’s a local favorite. Her parents and brothers are often searching out customers for matchmaking attempts, much to Gemma’s chagrin. She purchased an old Victorian home she’s renovating and her work does not leave her much time for dating… let alone a fix up! Brett Tanner is an ATF agent whose partner is a K-9, Blaze, who specializes in discovering accelerants. They are a highly talented team and communicate without words often. Working with Gemma and her detailed research and knack for organizing information makes them explosive. They are on the hunt for a serial arsonist, and if they don’t act fast, they both could very well be the next victims. Holy smokes, grab an extinguisher! The handsome alpha ATF agent combined with the strong-willed, independent woman gets the heat rising quickly in "Burning Justice." Tee O’Fallon deserves kudos not only for an amazing page flipping plot, but also her in-depth research and presentation of a litany of complex criminal scenarios. The supporting cast holds the hero and heroine together with continual support, and guides the readers through sub-plots that weave together beautiful family situations that many will relate to. The addition of an affectionate and highly trained dog (who kinda steals the show sometimes!) and a goldfish brings these two tattered souls together and keeps them grounded. Subjects including mental health, PTSD and burn victims may be some triggers, however all are delivered in a delicate and dignified manner. A fabulously written unputdownable tale from beginning to end!

Becky Flade

Viola Robbins

David Boito

Jennifer Shepherd

Tee O’Fallon

Viola Robbins

www.indtale.com

SUSPENSE/THRILLER

Iniquity: A Sean McPherson Novel, Book Four Laurie Buchanan

Sean McPherson is thrown back into the deep end when his fiancée is kidnapped by crime boss Georgio Gambino. Not only that, but loved ones of his two best friends are taken, and if any of them make an attempt at a rescue, one of their loved ones will be killed. Attendees at the writers retreat work tirelessly to help the three friends get the ones they care about back. As events unfold, the friends get taken on a perilous journey and they’ll find themselves going against the clock, and a cunning foe that is determined to make them suffer. Will the best friends succeed in their mission? Or are they doomed to lose everything they hold dear? Once again, Laurie Buchanan has nailed it with this fantastic addition to the Sean McPherson series! The previous three books are full of awesomeness, and this has most certainly been continued with "Iniquity". There is a real race against time which makes this book a true page turner, and readers will be scrambling to find out if the three friends get their loved ones back safely. Fans of suspense and thrillers will really enjoy this series. The vast array of characters are well written, and the plots pull one along seemingly faster than a speeding bullet. This book has so much going for it, and it is definitely one that should be added to the to-be-read list! "Iniquity" will leave readers needing more from this very talented author. Nail-biting suspense excellence! Lynn McKendrick

INSPIRATIONAL

Winning The Widow’s Heart Jo-Ann Roberts

HISTORICAL: It’s the height of the American Civil War, and Roswell, Georgia, is in the path of Union soldiers. Widow Sofie Bishop struggles to hold on to the ruins of her family home, and accepts a humble job at the town’s woolen mill. The Yankees reach Roswell, burn the mill and most of the town, then they round up the women and children, now branded as traitors, to be transported north to an uncertain future. Union Captain Seth Ramsey is dismayed at how his commanding general treats Confederate women and children. He is drawn to one lady in particular, the widow Sofie, and makes it his business to protect her during the long trip back north… even if she wants nothing to do with him because he is a Yankee. A marriage of convenience between a Union soldier and a Confederate widow? What an unexpected plot spun along the backdrop of America’s darkest years! The story is told in a highly creative and heartfelt manner. However heartbreaking the story can be, it is still wonderful and stunning, and surprisingly enjoyable to read. Sofie and Seth’s slow romance, despite being surrounded by such heartache and loss, is lovely to see unfold. Sofie has fierce loyalty for her friends, and Seth is protective of the displaced southerners. The Civil War was cruel, but Sofie and Seth’s marriage of convenience is beautiful. Readers who enjoy moving storylines, valiant heroes, brave heroines, and insurmountable odds, will certainly enjoy this page-turner! Emerson Matthews

72 InD’Tale Magazine

TIME TRAVEL

Of Mist and Memory Jannae Vale

Sydney Richmond has been working hard for years all for one goal: to buy her own Scottish island—and she’s got the perfect one in mind! Oorlich Isle is everything she’s wanted, and it’s for sale! And haunted. The resident Highlander ghost has scared off all the previous owners. Sydney will not be one of them! Murdered in the 1600’s, Graham is as salty as the ocean about his circumstances and how they’ve nearly destroyed his home. He wants Sydney to fix things back to the way they belong. A massive storm hits the island and Sydney finds herself transported back in time to when Graham was alive. There he learns there’s a reason he’s finding himself fond of her. Ms. Vale creates a beautiful, gripping twist on time travel in "Of Mist and Memory!" Richly descriptive and full of heart, the journey readers go on is one full of intrigue and romance. Sydney is the type of heroine that is easy to relate to and root for. She’s intelligent, she’s strong, and she’s compassionate. Graham is witty and swoon worthy. Together their chemistry feels real, and it grows from friendship into something more in a fashion that doesn’t feel rushed. This book is sizzling! Smoking hot, even! The love scenes provide a strong pay off for the buildup. Overall, the plot is a unique play on some familiar time travel tropes, making it an engaging read from start to finish. There are a few slow sections, but the mystery will keep readers turning pages! A great read for lovers of steamy historical romances and paranormal adventures! Chelsea Anderson

MYSTERY

Catawba Falls W.F. Ranew

Camp Ridgemont for Boys is having a summer camp reunion, and Red Farlow is attending. He had many years of adventure at the camp and is looking forward to reuniting with all of the friends he made along the way. Upon his arrival, however, he discovers that two camp counselors have been brutally murdered in the woods. There’s a suspect: Troy Unsworthy, a farright extremist with a history of such crimes. After spending years in prison, Unsworthy has recently been released, so the timing can’t just be a coincidence, can it? Red is determined to find out and will need to trek through endless mountains and forests to find out. "Catawba Falls" is a rollercoaster of adventure and mystery! Every time the plot seems like it’s been figured out, it takes a new, unexpected turn! From start to finish this ride is exciting! W.F. Ranew does a fantastic job of creating the perfect ambiance for the tale. From the first page, there’s mystery hanging in the air, and it will draw readers in. The characters are all carefully crafted. Red is a true hero! The villains of the story are the kind readers will love to hate. W.F. Ranew’s writing style is quick and to the point, and some readers might not connect with it easily. The overall pacing of the book is fitting for the genre, and "Catawba Falls" hits all of the sweet spots that are expected in a mystery, while also keeping it fresh. Overall, this is a great book for lovers of mysteries! Chelsea Anderson

The Killer Enigma Breakfield and Burkey

JJ and Jo want nothing more than to be left alone and have something that resembles privacy, but being well known, there is little chance of that. They decide to go back to Magnolia Bluff in the hopes that being in the small town will give them the respite they crave. Unfortunately, the plan for a quiet life doesn’t quite pan out when they find themselves embroiled in a situation that could see one or both of them killed. As they try to make sense of what’s going on while attempting to make a home for themselves, JJ and Jo will learn that the small town life isn’t always as quiet and peaceful as it’s made out to be.

"The Killer Enigma" is the newest addition to a huge series of books, and it is an interesting read. There is a definite whodunit feel with a cool cast of characters that readers will find fascinating and well developed. Granted, there are some areas where the plot slows down, but it soon picks up again. There is a lot of good description that fans of suspense will enjoy, and it will make readers feel as though they are standing in Magnolia Bluff going through everything the characters are. If this is the first book in the series being read, there will be a definite want to go back and check out the other books by these authors and to delve into the world and characters they have created. This tale is definitely one to add to the e-reader this fall! Lynn McKendrick

A Killer in the Crystal Palace Deb Marlowe

HISTORICAL: London, 1851, the Great Exhibition celebrates the arts, industry, and modern technology of the times. Miss Kara Levett, an expert in creating elaborate automaton mechanicals, gets admission with Mr. Niell Kier’s help. Niell forges intricate iron scrollwork into exquisite artistic screens and gates. An unexpected connection of artistic respect sparks between the Baron’s daughter and the Scottish artist. Inside the Crystal Palace, after the event opens, they cross paths and appreciate the comments of the crowds for their respective contributions. A one-armed man is murdered with a part from one of Kara’s automatons. Other jealous exhibitors and a peerage committee member conclude that Kara is responsible. This fast-paced mystery set in the Victorian period, intertwines two self-sufficient and gifted intellectuals on a quest to find a murderer. Kara is portrayed as a strong female character, keenly interested in developing her engineering marvels, yet with a sensitive side. Niell wants to share his artistic talent and earn enough to continue with his dreams. These relatable people possess past lives and hidden secrets that get revealed, like finding one’s way through a complex labyrinth—hopefully unscathed. Their character strengths are highlighted as this intricate mystery’s unexpected dead end clues and lies unfold. Each clue pursued opens new investigation threads and options, keeping readers riveted to the pages. Fans of historical mysteries will be intrigued by the growing friendship of Kara and Niell, and with the unexpected ending of the outstanding first book in the Kier and Levett Mystery Series. Readers will plead for more adventures featuring this creative matched pair. Simone Dober www.indtale.com

MYSTERY

LGBTQ+

Until Death

At What Cost, Silence?

A Perfect Heresy

PARANORMAL: Hope Hendricks is a recently widowed radiographer who has moved to a small town where her cousin lives to make a fresh start. The house she has rented is dated, cold, and empty. She is still grieving, trying to come to terms with her husband’s suicide, and the mess he’s left behind. Her loneliness is allconsuming. Her past is haunting her, and her mind starts playing tricks on her as disturbing occurrences in her house rattle her. Or is the house haunted? Reed lives next door and is in an abusive relationship with his live-in girlfriend. The relationship is getting worse, and he is drawn to Hope. They offer each other a shoulder to cry on. But as their attraction grows, so does the danger from their pasts. This tale starts off well, with an intriguing mystery surrounding the death of Hope’s husband. It then takes a swift turn into the paranormal as creepy things start happening in the rental she’s moved into. Hope’s grief allows her to accept and explain away the incidents, somewhat believable but bordering on the absurd. Her first visit to the hospital should have raised red flags. The second occurrence should have her leaving the house. Hope appears to be a character that has never had control over her life and decisions, which might explain her bland acquiescence. Reed is the more rounded character, with virtues and flaws. The subplot of domestic abuse towards men makes this a more intriguing story. Both Hope and Reed seem incredibly dependent on a relationship, so the chemistry — though not forced, lacks true depth. The twist comes at the end, and the high action sequence at this point is a good page-turner. Chilling!

HISTORICAL: It’s 1849 and Adrien Villere lives in Washington, Texas, on a tobacco plantation with his family and their slaves. Adrien knew his slaves are free, even though everywhere else they were indentured vassals. Adrien must keep it a secret that the serfs that work on the family farm are independent, but he must keep up the front that they serve his family. Adrien doesn’t care about politics; he spends his time with his servant and best friend, Isaac. Unfortunately, Adrien is also too handsome for his own good, and falls for many people throughout his life. The threat of the states seceding from the Union and his sordid affair with the neighbor’s daughter, Lily Hart, ultimately changes Adrien’s life, and thrusts him into leaving his safe haven forever for the impending war. A fascinating, epic tale of a family farmstead that is told incredibly well! The graphic story is superb, with such vivid descriptions of a Texas plantation that readers can imagine themselves there. However, the story does jump around some, making it feel choppy in some places. The end of part one, for example, five years goes by without any explanations of what happens to everyone, even though they continue on. It does leave a lot of open-ended questions. The second part is better at delving into the motivations of all, though it doesn’t fully explain them. The book has numerous viewpoints surrounding the main protagonist, Adrien, who is blissfully unaware of the true nature of humans and the pitfalls of love, even the central romance with Lily, which is a bit of a surprise. Still, Ms. Klink has penned a beautifully written novel full of hardships, betrayals, and devotion.

SCI-FI: Koi is an outsider, separated from the Citizens by a wall created to keep those who were perfect in, and the others out. Tired of being oppressed, the outsiders rebelled. Now the Great War has ended and the voice is dead, the once prosperous city has fallen, leaving behind fear and desperation. Koi has lost all but one of Xir family, Xir sibling Sky who was abducted by city soldiers. Xe is determined to find Xem. Jax is an ex-soldier, condemned as a heretic for defying the will of the voice. But Koi is sick, and running out of time to find Sky. Jax is the key into the city. Can two people who were taught to hate each other find a way to work together? Moving and engaging, Courtney Maguire masterfully takes you straight into an apocalyptic setting akin to Mad Max. This is an alternate world of gender-neutral persons, yet with a social structure that is relatable to the reader. For someone who is not familiar with Xe/ Xem pronouns, this could take a moment to adjust to the sentence structure, but once one does, just sit back and enjoy the ride. The effortless world-building by Ms. Maguire makes this a wondrous joy to read. The journey taken by Koi and Jax will pull at your heartstrings as they navigate each hurdle thrown in their way to reach both their desired destinations. The story moves seamlessly and keeps the reader on their toes by cleverly revealing only what is essential till the very end.

London Clarke

Rika Chandra

InD’Tale Magazine

Karen Lynne Klink

Roslynn Ernst

Courtney Maguire

Rika Chandra

AUDIOBOOKS

Enigma Tracer

Breakfield and Burkey SUSPENSE/THRILLER: Phillip Pliant is the CEO of Pliant Industries and a wealthy plastics broker. He manages multiple businesses (some of which are questionable), with his current ventures focused in the Caribbean. He has promised wealth and opportunity to the area but is failing to deliver. R-Group is now led by Gracie and the other family heirs. Her twin, JJ, is running CATS (Cyber Assassin Technology Services). Gracie and her best friend, Bailey, are recent graduates with advanced degrees from a college in Ireland. They both have jobs and have found significant others ( Jeff and Keith). When they learn about Pliant’s nefarious dealings in the Caribbean, they decide to investigate with help from the CATS team and from Jeff and Keith. Certain lives hang in the balance while the team figures things out fast enough to make a difference. This is a well-crafted story with incredible detail and a complex plot. The story incorporates current events and relevant technology in a clever way to make it believable. The authors have aged these characters over time. In the prior series, these ‘kids’ were being born, growing up, learning their craft, and training to take their place as leaders. Now they have taken over the responsibility of running the family ‘business,’ and they are the adults making the decisions—with both positive and negative ramifications. The conflicts and settings are relatable to people interested in current events and global issues. Derek Shoales does a fantastic job narrating this audiobook. His accents and characterizations sound authentic and believable. It doesn’t even register as odd to hear a male narrator portraying the voices of various female characters. The production quality is excellent and there aren’t any unexpected noises or irregularities in the recording. Carey Sullivan

ANTHOLOGIES

Timeless Western Collection: A Wyoming Summer Carla Kelly, Christine Sterling, Heather B. Moore

HISTORICAL: The first novella in this anthology is "Ellen Found" by Carla Kelly. This story is about the construction of the Old Faithful Inn in 1903. Ellen Found decides to leave a rough work environment in Montana for an unknown job in the kitchen feeding the workers completing the Inn. There, she meets some people who change her life. In "The Widow of Daybreak" by Christine Sterling, Doris Whistler is living a nightmare in Daybreak, Wyoming in 1909. Her town gets overrun by outlaws. They kill her husband, and the head outlaw decides Doris will marry him, or he will start killing townsfolk. She sends a telegraph to her brother, who sends a friend to help her out. In "May I Kiss the Bride?" Heather B. Moore writes about Viola Delany, a young lady who has been sent to the small town of Mayfair, Wyoming, after a failed society engagement. Her parents send her via train to live and work with her aunt. The sheriff thwarts a robbery on the train but gets shot in the melee. A beautiful lady is a hot commodity in the male-dominated area, so her presence causes a few issues. These novellas are all well-written, sweet stories about life in the early 1900’s in Wyoming. These women face challenges with grit and courage. They exhibit fiercely independent spirits, and they carve out a place where they can not only belong but thrive. They sometimes challenge established female stereotypes, which causes issues at times for certain unenlightened males. The conflicts are defined clearly in each novella; however, there is some 21st century progressive thought interjected within the book, which strains believability occasionally. Regardless, this is a delightful book that offers readers a glimpse of what life may have been like over a hundred years ago in Wyoming. Carey Sullivan

Under the Harvest Moon Bluestocking Belles

HISTORICAL: Ravaged and broken in different ways, eight soldiers return home to Reabridge, Cheshire, England to recover in mind and body. The women of Reabridge are strong and know what— and who—they want, and will do anything to get it. It is the time of the Harvest Moon, and the village is preparing for their annual festival following the harvest. Each lady wants to have a special someone by her side to dance with at the festival. Jack Wrath helps Doctor Adam Wagner get home. Due to his inebriated state which helps him deal with his demons, Doctor Adam Wagner does not see that the midwife, Meg Barlow, loves him. Jack Wrath is looking for a niche to fill, even though his one arm hangs without a sling because a bullet caught him in the shoulder. Cortland will not be dancing due to the shrapnel in his leg, but Avery loves him with all her heart. David Buckley is mourning his dead wife who died following the drum. All have needs, and all have ways to have them fulfilled in Reabridge. "Under the Harvest Moon" is an incredible anthology, seamlessly laced together by nine brilliant, award winning authors. The village is so realistic one wishes to visit and attend the Harvest Moon Festival with the rest of the villagers. One can feel the hustle and bustle as stands are set up and wares fill the stands, waiting for the festival to begin. The many characters come to life and leap off the page as they are introduced to the reader. We sympathize with them as we learn their weaknesses and applaud them as they rise to overcome them. These imperfect heroes are matched with their imperfect heroines, as these ladies all have their demons, too. Reabridge is a peaceful place where children can be safely raised and injuries overlooked or healed. It is a perfect place to visit, over and over again. Belinda Wilson