Nick and Julia come home from Venice and is trying to get back to ‘normal’. Nick’s soul mate from another lifetime is stuck in a Tintoretto painting along with others. The Order thinks that Nick knows the hiding place of a particular book and is willing to do whatever is needed to get their hands on it.
This book was just as good as the first, keeping me on the edge of my seat!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erin Vostershttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin Vosters2022-12-01 11:18:372022-12-08 14:08:15Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Erin Vosters
Painter of the Damned is Book Two in the Painted Souls Series and picks up where book one left off. Nick and Julia are determined to end their nightmare vacation and return home. They have managed to escape Venice and have almost made it to the American consulate when Interpol captures them and swiftly returns them to Venice. Nick is detained and brought forth on charges, but Julia is allowed to go free.
Determined to rescue her husband, Julia enlists the help of Carlo, the young artist that her and Nick met in Venice during their vacation. However, Julia does not know that Carlo is the order’s new painter, and he now controls those damned to spend eternity in Tintoretto’s Renaissance painting, Paradise.
After reading book one, the Prisoner of Paradise, I knew that I needed to read book two. Book one followed both Nick and Julia, but mainly focused on Nick as he was determined to free his soulmate from the Renaissance painting, Paradise. In this book there are multiple point of views, but the story mainly follows Julia as she fights to save Nick from Interpol and the charges brought forth against him. Julia is strong, smart, determined, and will do anything to save him so they can return home and leave this nightmare behind them.
There is non-stop action and suspense throughout and you can feel the sense of danger that lurks around every corner. The author does an exquisite job of describing each scene in detail so vivid that you can visualize it and feel as though you are there with the characters. A heart-pounding, edge of your seat thrill ride that you must read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2022-12-01 10:57:212022-12-08 14:08:09Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
This is the second book in the Painted Souls series and wow these books just keep getting better. These books are a perfect mix of history and mystery all wrapped up. The story flows really well and doesn’t get confusing when it switches between the past and present.
Nick and Julia are our main characters, however the story mainly revolves around Nick and his past life. I would really recommend reading the first book in this series so you get a proper understanding of Nicks story and why him and Julia are in the situation they are now.
After their trip to Venice turned into a scary disaster all they want to do is return home and as far away from Venice as possible. They head to the American consulate however they get stopped and captured before they get there. Interpol is convinced that Nick is hiding secrets from his past life and they plan to get to the truth. Now it is a race against time for Julia to try and save her husband but without knowing where to turn and who to trust will she even be able to do that? What does Nick remember about the past and is it what his captures are after?
The story is really well woven with past meeting present. The descriptions really bring the characters and Venice to life for me.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2022-12-01 10:48:122022-12-08 14:08:02Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Kerry Carr
Intertwining timelines, thriller, history, magic, and of course romance. This book has it all!
Nick and Julia O’Connor are taking a dream trip to Venice, well due to Nick’s head injury, it was a much needed trip anyways. They find a painting named Paradise and a woman’s voice reaches out to Nick. This voice is a soul mate from a previous life. Julia doesn’t know what to do and thinks it’s all due to Nick’s head injury.
Very well written and it definitely kept me interested to read more!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erin Vostershttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErin Vosters2022-12-01 10:04:402022-12-08 14:07:08The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls Book 1) by Rob Samborn – Review by Erin Vosters
This is book 3 in the series . What I’m about to say is not critique but my personal opinion, I think it’s because I’m book greedy 📕❣️😉 I didn’t feel lost but I had a few questions when I got to after halfway so if you’re greedy like me read the first 2 but it’s definitely not a deal breaker and Gunner earns every 🌟 it’s gets when reviewed !
This read felt so real because the effects and it’s shocking aftermath of Coronavirus is still so very raw and fresh so you really feel this read .
I must compliment TJ Beach on the splash of humour is does relieve the tension a bit 😉❣️
Gary is a bit of a closed book and his new boss Debbie is very curious as to who and what this man is . She befriends him and he comes a part of her life and family so when her mum tests positive for coronavirus and they all have to go into quarantine , Gary included things become very real for all of them especially Gary and we all get to learn so much more about the characters , as I said very relatable.
Heads up I needed a little time out to to absorb and reflect when I was done , not a bad thing just a real thing
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heidihttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeidi2022-11-29 21:02:502022-11-30 07:06:19Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Heidi Sturgess
This was such a great read. It’s not something I would usually choose to read, but this book I couldn’t put down. I wanted to know what happened next. I highly recommend this book. This story was beautifully written. If you love to read books with thrillers, history, and romance, then this is the book for you!!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Melissa Finkhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMelissa Fink2022-11-29 14:20:452022-11-30 06:58:14Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Melissa Fink
This was my first book by this author and it will not be my last. I will definitely go back and read the first two books of this series. How the story is set up is pretty neat. It’s a story within a story. Gary and Deb have a weird/great relationship. I will be reading more from this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Johnson2022-11-28 07:28:282022-11-29 14:03:30Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Ashley Johnson
Nick and Julia have had enough, trying to get to the American Consulate to get home from the horrendous trip away, but unbeknownst to them Salvatore is hiding in the wings ready to get them transported back to Venice.
Salvatore is convinced that Nick has the lost knowledge to find the location of the manuscript, but can Nick get the information required before he is consumed with his past life. Julia must work to try and help her husband release his past life and take Salvatore down in the process.
Can Julia help her husband and bring him back from the past, you will need to find out?
Oh, my lord, I have come into this series with this book and although I did struggle with some of the back knowledge from the first book it did not distract me from the utterly mind shattering story. The story was captivating full of magic and mystery with a sprinkling of ancient Italy. The added complexity of past lives and twists and turns leaves you wanting more.
The story is fast paced and will draw you into worlds of treachery and mysteries of the past which will have you turning the pages to try and discover more. To be fair this would not be a book I would instantly be drawn too but was recommended by a friend and oh my I can’t wait to read more by this wonderful author and this wonderful series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Shirleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Shirley2022-11-28 05:23:332022-11-29 14:03:11Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Angela Shirley
5 Stars Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn
Painter of the Damned is the second book in the Painted Souls Series and is a wonderfully written Historical Thriller that will grab your attention from the beginning and doesn’t let go till the end. I’d highly recommend reading the first book in this series if you haven’t already as it gives you a better understanding of what is going on and you get to know the characters better plus its just as amazing as this one. Nick and Julia are just trying to get home Venice and leave behind the nightmare of a vacation but before they make it to the American Consulate they are captured by Interpol and returned to Venice. Della Porta believes Nick knows the location of a book that will give him world changing powers. As the past seems to take over nick its completely up to Julia to take down Della Porta and save Nick. Holy Cow this book is packed full of action ,drama, suspense and so much more. I have recommend reading this nail biting thriller to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to seeing what he brings us next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Dawn Daughenbaughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDawn Daughenbaugh2022-11-27 23:06:512022-11-29 13:59:48Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh
This was a great 5 star read. I was pulled in and didn’t want to put it down. Debbie and Gary are staying together during the pandemic. As time goes on, Debbie’s mom ends up with COVID and she becomes very worried. Gary also has a past that he decides to share with Debbie. We learn some interesting and heartbreaking things. How will Debbie react to Gary’s secrets? Will his story help her keep her mind off her worries?
Overall this was a great read. The characters were great and they had a great connection. At first I wasn’t sure about Gary until he started sharing his story. The author does a great job with his writing. This is the 3rd book in the series but can be read as a stand alone. 1-click and get started today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Austinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Austin2022-11-27 22:28:362022-11-29 13:59:23Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Michelle Austin
This book makes me think of reincarnation. Also if déjà vu. Having multiple lives and still have memories of the past life. What amazes me is that Angelo takes over Nick body. Though Nick is trying to take back over. It was a good big I couldn’t get enough of flipping pages to find out what was next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Diazhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Diaz2022-11-27 13:00:402022-11-29 13:52:49Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Angela Renee Diaz
Nick and Julia thought they escaped Venice for good, until Nick is arrested and returned to Venice for the murder of Jacopo Comin, a man that should have been dead long-ago. As Nick and Angelo merge together even further, events become even more tragic, and Julia becomes determined to rescue her beloved with the help of Painter Carlo and a mysterious Guild. Tragedy after tragedy unfolds. What ever happened to Nick/Angelo? Is Julia able to save him? Find out in Painter of the Damned. Full of lovable and relatable characters, readers feel right along with the emotions running rampant throughout the book. The descriptions make the reader feel as though they are right alongside the characters. I would not change a single part of this book. It does end in a cliffhanger, making me yearn for more. If you are looking for a fast-paced book filled with mystery, romance, tragedy, action, and historical fiction look no further. Painter of the Damned is the second installment in the Painted Souls series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Breanne Christianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBreanne Christian2022-11-25 15:51:162022-11-29 13:44:34Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Breanne Christian
I’m sure it is a good book but I couldn’t get farther than chapter 3. I don’t recall anything about COVID in the book description and I just couldn’t get past it. I’m not opposed to modern timed books I just don’t want to have to think about COVID when it happened in the very recent past. It was also confusing going back and forth from country’s. One moment they are in Australia in current times then you are in Britain and it isn’t clear when the transition happens, to me at least.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Emmye Marihughhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngEmmye Marihugh2022-11-24 19:30:392023-08-05 22:22:36Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Emmye Marihugh
This is such a rich and detailed story that I couldn’t put down once I had started reading. Everything about the book is well thought out and just amazing. I was caught up in the stories and the characters, both complimenting the other. The author has packed so much into this book and he has really captured all the detail so well. As a new author to me I still don’t fully know what to expect from his books but I hope it is more of this in the future!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2022-11-24 16:17:442022-11-25 12:04:02Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Kerry Baker
How each person navigated through the early days of the pandemic is a personal experience. This book provides readers a window into the lives of a family who must quarantine when the grandmother learns she has been exposed to, and ultimately contracts, Covid. Readers experience a story within a story. One main character delivers, in increments, to the other main character, a part of his history he had previously kept silent about. This story within is exceptional. Learning to depend on others, and to what extent we depend on them, while isolating and quarantining- I feel that may be the ultimate lesson we take away from the pandemic.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Alison Risherhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAlison Risher2022-11-24 07:16:482022-11-25 12:04:46Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Alison Risher
After reading book 1 in the series, I had to immediately start book 2. I’m so glad I didn’t wait. I was so hooked and read this in no time. So much for cleaning, I had better things to do!!! This one was just as good as the first if not better. Don’t miss out on this book or this series, it’s amazing.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Westermanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Westerman2022-11-22 21:07:322022-11-22 21:07:32Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Ashley Westerman
This book kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time I was reading it. The suspense really got me. I couldn’t believe some of the things Lily went through and survived. This was such an entertaining read that kept me wondering what else could happen. IF you’re looking for something to keep your mind busy for a few hours pick this up today. I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for us.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Westermanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Westerman2022-11-22 21:02:162022-11-22 21:02:16The Brass Compass by Ellen Butler – Review by Ashley Westerman
Gunner by T.J. Beach My rating: 4 of 5 stars Reading this as a stand-alone rather than as a part of the series. This book has a very interesting plot […]
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christenhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristen2022-11-20 15:32:432022-11-21 11:58:35Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Christen Ware
After a brain injury leaves Nick O’Connor somewhat confused, his wife, Julia is hesitant to travel to Venice for her career. Nick convinces her and his doctor that he is stable, and the pair goes on their trip. While exploring artwork, Nick believes that a beautiful woman inside of a painting called Paradise is talking to him, but only he can hear her. Unsure as to if it is real, or if it is his brain injury talking, he ignores it. Then, he passes out. Nick tries to write it off as his brain injury, but something pulls him to return to Paradise to see if the instance occurs again, and it does. During his return, Nick finds that the woman’s name is Isabella and that her soul is trapped within the painting. Julia starts to fear for Nick’s wellbeing, while Nick puts the two of them further into danger. What exactly is Paradise and who are the people who are protecting it? Answers are found, while more mystery behind the painting unfold. The Prisoner of Paradise is full of relatable characters, action, mystery, and betrayal. The scenes the writer describes can easily be envisioned, as well as the emotions that the characters feel can be felt through the reader. The Prisoner of Paradise is a work of art within itself. I would not change a single part of it. If you are looking for a thriller full of beautiful sights, mystery, twists and turns, and love, look no further. I cannot wait to pick up the sequel, Painter of the Damned.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Breanne Christianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBreanne Christian2022-11-19 10:31:092022-11-21 11:48:46The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls Book 1) by Rob Samborn – Review by Breanne Christian
This is my first book in this series. This author has an interesting way of storytelling. There is so much going on at all times. I am not sure which plot line to focus on or which one matters the most. In this book there are at least 4 different lines to follow. The thing is that you can easily follow each one. It is fantastic.
Deb and Gary are friends and partners in a private investigations firm in Western Australia. Deb and Gary have a unique relationship. They seem more like brother and sister. The story is set at the beginning of the Covid pandemic when there was little known about the disease. Deb’s mom, Nan, was diagnosed with Covid and is growing sicker. Deb and Gary have had to self-isolate with Deb’s kids. To keep Deb’s mind off of Nan’s illness, Gary tells Deb a story about his experience with covert government agencies in London. As part of this tale, Gary tells Deb about his former partner, Tish, and their relationship. As Nan’s condition changes, Gary’s tale of covert undercover work grows more dangerous.
I can’t believe the way this book ends. Seriously. Nothing like a good old fashioned cliffhanger. Even if the book didn’t end the way it did, I am pretty sure I was sticking around to find out what happens next. This is an amazing read!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00M Policicchiohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngM Policicchio2022-11-18 22:48:402022-11-21 11:52:20Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by M Policicchio
This book is definitely and interesting one to read. As the third book in the series it can be read as a standalone although I do think it would be best read in order. I enjoyed the story but definitely feel like I missed a few details and background information. This book is a good thriller. It pulled me in and I wanted to read more to see what was going on. I enjoyed seeing the dynamic between all the characters. With the added complexity of COVID I think it created an intriguing story. Having experienced the pandemic so recently I think this really helped you to engage with what was happening. I thought this was a well written story and I am looking forward to reading the previous books in the series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2022-11-17 16:22:432022-11-18 12:03:19Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Kerry Baker
Operation Blackbird is the 2nd book in the Brass Compass Series, however, it can be read as a stand alone. There are some overlapping characters but it is a solid story on its own. This book takes place in the 1940s after WW2 and during the Cold War. It is a historical fiction, based around true events, but with some of the authors imagination to fill in the gaps. This book had me so hooked from the get go. Miriam has a couple alias along the way, as a operative for the CIA. She and her team are sent to retrieve and rescue a Soviet and his family. Their mission is to get them out of Berlin and to America. They are dodging and evading agents from KGB, Stasis and even other CIA operatives. Staying alive and keeping their “package” alive proves to be harder than expected. I love the suspense of this book as well as the added relationships of Miriam and her friends. The ending was perfect. I look forward to more and recommend this to anyone who enjoys historical stories.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Elizabeth Sanchezhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngElizabeth Sanchez2022-11-16 19:47:432022-11-18 11:54:44Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez
Gunner By: TJ Beach 5* At the moment I am loving books that include our current life situation. At first, I thought that I would hate them and would prefer books that show characters experiencing life as we were used to. However the more I read books in a post pandemic world, the more I realize I like reading books that make me see characters in situations that are really really relatable. At the beginning of the book we meet, Gary and Debbie. Gary is man of mystery and Debbie wants to know more. Debbie is Gary’s new boss in a private investigator office. Debbie and Gary have grown close and everyone in Debbie’s family loves Gary, even her husband. Gary spends lots of time with Debbie and her kids. When Debbie’s mom tests positive for coronavirus, they find out that they all must quarantine. This means that Gary will be staying with Debbie and her family, because she doesnt want him to be alone for two whole weeks. This time gives Gary a chance to tell her about himself, his story and what all he has seen. This won’t be an easy task for Gary but he must help his friend distract herself from her situation. I absolutely loved this story. I love the realness of the situation, from the despair of Debbie’s Mother when she tests positive. To the family’s reaction to having to quarantine. However, the part I loved the most was the friendship between Debbie and Gary. This felt like a real life friendship and their care for one another was palpable. Gary’s story was absolutely fascinating and I loved reading the background about him. What has happened to him to make him the way he is. This is the third book in a series, but I have not read the first two books (yet). This definitely reads as a standalone and I had no problem following the storyline as I was reading. I definitely think this is a must read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2022-11-16 14:43:142022-11-18 11:51:54Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Christine Baranek
Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler. I love this series and this book was no different. I could not put it down. Its the story of Miriam a CIA operative during the Cold War. She has seen more than any one person should see and her dreams keep her awake at night. Trying to fight the KGB and be one step ahead of them at all times is a job in itself. Her mission this time is very dangerous and if she can succeed then she will save more than one life. She is trying to help a scientist deflect from Russia and to do that she may end up in more danger herself. This book is so full of history and spy stuff that I found so very interesting. You don’t know who to trust and there is danger around every corner. I can’t wait til the next book in this amazing series. Do yourself a favor and read it today.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2022-11-16 12:02:212022-11-18 11:50:47Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tausha Treadway
Gary and Debbie work together at the Detective Agency, although they get on well there is always something at the back of Debbie’s mind that Gary seems to have had a hard life. As the time goes on Debbie is devastated when her mother becomes ill with COVID her world falls apart.
As the world comes under siege by this mysterious virus and is thrown into Quarantine, with her mother ill and Debbie not being able to get to her so becomes reliant on Gary to help her through this time. Gary has his own demons and with the help of Debbie offering an ear when he needs to decompress the relationship grows.
Gary’s history is rocky, and can Debbie help him be the man he wants to be.
This was the first book I have read by this author and although this story is the third in the series it was easy to read as a standalone. I loved the characters and the interactions they had needing each other in the times of great solitude and pressures of the pandemic in Australia. The story from Gary was heart-breaking and really delved into his character and who he is now.
I loved this story and can’t wait to read the other two books in this series to understand the relationship got to this point from these characters and hope to read book four in the future.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Shirleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Shirley2022-11-16 09:00:082022-11-18 11:48:38Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Angela Shirley
This is the 3rd book in the Hollins & Haring series. I personally haven’t read the first two books but I was still able to enjoy this as a standalone. The author has a great way of writing which drags you into the story and doesn’t let go. I really felt for Debbie when her mum tested positive for covid. All the upsetting circumstances of having a loved women very poorly and not being able to help is something most people can relate to which makes the story feel more real.
Gary and Debbie work together trying to set up their own investigation business. But to Debbie Gary is a mystery. She doesn’t know much about his past or where he comes from, that is until now.
Gary doesn’t want to remember his past or even think about it but when Debbie’s mum becomes sick with covid he decides a way to distract her is to open up about himself. So we are now taken through a story of danger, heartbreak and action and we grow to understand why Gary is the way he is and the circumstances which have lead him here. Mixed with us learning Gary’s story we also still follow along with Debbie and her family as they struggle with her mum being ill and all the complications that came with a sick loved one during covid times.
It was lovely to see Debbie and Gary get closer as Gary tells his story. Its hard to read in parts as Gary is forced to face demons he would rather never see again but he feels he needs to, because his story is all thats holding Debbie together at times. I will definately be going back to read the first two books.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Carrhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Carr2022-11-16 07:25:122022-11-18 11:48:05Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Kerry Carr
Operation Blackbird is another enjoyable installment in The Brass Compass series. I liked Jake in Book one and I was glad to see him get his own book, to see what he got up to after the war, and to read his love story. I also really enjoyed reading about the strong, resourceful, independent Miriam. Operation Blackbird was an intense, nail biter of a book, and it brought to light the dangers that people involved in espionage, and spying, actually endure, and how much they actually put on the line every time they go ‘under’, though they are incredibly important to their cause they must question every move, every answer, and every everything. I did learn some things that I didn’t already know about this time period, and I was inspired to do more research on it. What happened after WWII, and the war between the Soviet Union and the U.S was new territory for me. I loved historical fiction because it keeps me interested, usually involves a bit of romance, teaches me something, and inspires me to learn more. Operation Blackbird checked all those boxes. I can recommend this book and I will definitely be picking up any other book the author adds to this series, and you should too.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Micalahhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMicalah2022-11-16 06:53:442022-11-18 11:47:34Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz
I first came across Ellen’s book Operation Blackbird which was actually book two in the Brass Compass series but I’m the type that always likes to check out previous books in a series before just in case they are interconnected. Book number one was this book The Brass Compass and the premise of it was right up my alley considering the historical fiction aspect, and it being based during WW II. The characters from book one are in book 2 and sometimes they will reference events that occur in the other but I don’t feel that it’s absolutely necessary to read them in order as they are each their own separate stories with the focus being on their own characters, following a different story line, and a different historical event. I throughly enjoyed The Brass Compass and fell in love with its storyline, and it’s characters. I thought it flowed well, was incredibly well-written, and I enjoyed the twists, and turns. The camaraderie and relationships between the characters in such tense times with the added touch of a little romance was just lovely. Whenever I opened my kindle I was wholly absorbed into Lily, a U.S spy, and Charlie, a major in the U.S Military, and their world. I just didn’t want to stop reading. I eagerly look forward to book two and other books written by this author.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Micalahhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMicalah2022-11-16 06:32:542022-11-18 11:47:16The Brass Compass (Brass Compass Series Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz
The detail in this book – it’s amazing! The saying ‘show don’t tell’ definitely applies to this beautifully written narrative about the Cold War. Characters from previous titles in this series make appearances but our new heroine Miriam is feisty and brave as she navigates the new world in the decades following WWII. Another great story from this fantastic author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Gillianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngGillian2022-11-15 20:08:502022-11-18 11:41:49Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Gillian Fawell
Lily – the heroine of this tale – is brave and daring and the narrative is written in such a way that as the reader you are kept on the edge of your seat by what happens to her! This story reminds us that the end of the war was not clear cut by any means and that there were many parties involved, all with their own agendas. Definitely worth a read – especially if, like me you’re a fan of historical fiction!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Gillianhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngGillian2022-11-15 19:21:482022-11-18 11:40:56The Brass Compass (Brass Compass Series Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Gillian Fawell
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