This is the second book in the Brass Compass series; however, you don’t necessarily need to read the first in order to understand what’s going on (I didn’t) in this one. This is more of a companion novel, not a sequel. I am going to go back and read the first one to see how much it enriches this novel, but you can definitely read this as a standalone. We follow Miriam Becker, a CIA operative, who has one last mission with an old friend, Jake Devlin but things don’t go as planned and when Jake puts his life before hers, Miriam is forced to flee while Jake is left behind. I really enjoyed not only Ellen Butler’s character development and her strong female lead, but also the way she develops her plot and just pulls the read in from the get-go and doesn’t let them go. I couldn’t put this book down. I love historical fiction and this went above and beyond what I thought it would be.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Megan Kimleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMegan Kimley2022-11-15 07:42:082022-11-18 11:32:21Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Megan Conley
Great read to see what happens in militant relationships. How secrets can build and destroy relationships.
In the time of covid and quarantines, what happens when colleagues are stuck together? One with a past he wants to forget and the other is worried about an ill family member. What better way to bond and pass the time than to tell a story that has weighed heavy on one’s heart?
This book focuses on the story of Gary Hollins and what brought him to Australia. Not everything it was it seems with Gary. He has a past that is hard to handle let alone for a man to retell. Yet he tells his closest friend and colleague to help keep her occupied from worrying about her family.
What secrets and skeletons lie in Gary’s closet? What happens when one is cut off from family? Read this book to find out.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kiana Corleyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKiana Corley2022-11-13 22:53:302023-08-05 13:58:54Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Kiana Corley
A truly rich world with everything you could possibly want! Secret society, magic, betrayal, murder. It’s just a wonderfully written piece that Dan Brown fans will love! I really enjoyed this one and the twists and turns were awesome! Strap in for this one, it’s a ride!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jess Dimmockhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJess Dimmock2022-11-13 14:53:072022-11-18 11:05:53Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Jess Dimmock
First off this is book 3 but a great standalone read. I don’t feel like you miss anything by not reading the other 2 first. This book does have some trigger parts…. I say that not to spoil but to warn it does talk about a suicide and a miscarriage. It also talks about the struggle and then turn around of a covid patient. Plus the struggle families had in the early days/weeks/months of the pandemic when a loved one was in the hospital.
Gary and Debbie end up quarantining together when Debbie’s mom comes down with Covid. They aren’t just co-workers but also friends as well. So this book is taking place early 2020 and mentions several times at how strict the lockdown(s) were at that time and being the first case in that area.
Debbie knows Gary has a past and during their time in quarantine she talks Gary into telling her his story. And what a story it is! His military background and training were working for him when he got mixed in with basically the wrong people. As he is telling his story to Debbie he changes into what I would like to think his old self… the one before getting caught up “chasing the money”.
All while they are working towards being private investigators. He tells Debbie about his past life and why he is now in Australia and under a new name. Seeing how hard Gary worked in his past life and let the bad over take his life I felt bad for him and his journey.
Now I am off to read the other 2 books as I need to know more of Debbie and Garys story! Hopefully there is a 4th because I’d love a follow up to this one!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Devon N Pulliamhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDevon N Pulliam2022-11-12 21:49:312022-11-18 11:01:24Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Devon Pulliam
Miriam is a CIA operative after the war. This book tells about how Miriam helps a rocket scientist escape East Berlin. During the escape, not everything goes as planned and Jake gets left behind. Miriam must do what she can to find him and get him to safety. A very good historical fiction book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Paula Sayershttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngPaula Sayers2022-11-12 17:46:462022-11-18 10:58:19Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Paula R Sayers
Gunner is the third book in the Hollins & Haring series by T.J. Beach. This is the first book that I have read by Mr. Beach, so I really didn’t know what to expect going into the story. But the intriguing name had caught my eye, and I really love a great thriller- so I clicked a copy and dove in to see what I would find. I wish I had realised going in that this is the third book in the series, because even though this could be read as a standalone, I feel it would have been an even better experience if I had read the other two books in the series first and had known everything that has happened up to this point. Don’t get me wrong, this was a great read, as is, even not knowing what happened previously… I just can’t help but wonder what happened in the first two books and whether that information would have elevated my reading experience of this instalment…… so I will definitely be going back to explore those books, before continuing on with this series. This is a cleverly woven thriller with dual threads unravelling at the same time- adding some extra depth, tension, and intrigue to this gripping read. Playing out at the start of the Covid pandemic, the story takes us from Western Australia to London- for and action-packed read that I imagine would also make a thrilling movie. These characters are really well-developed- they were expertly crafted into fully realised individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. I felt for them and what they had/were going through- which made it easy to connect with them and invest in the story. I am glad that I stumbled on this book- otherwise I might have missed out on discovering a great author and a thrilling series, and now I can’t wait to sink my teeth into more instalments. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2022-11-11 23:14:002022-11-18 09:21:16Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Angela Hayes
I enjoyed reading this suspenseful thriller. This is a new author for me which I enjoyed reading. I enjoyed how the author was able to use their writing skills and attention to details to make the story come to life. This is a fast paced story that is hard to put down. The characters pulled you into the story from the start and made me feel a part of the story. They have great growth as well as being supportive of each other. The twists and turns had me sitting on the edge of my seat. Gary is asked to help a friend but before he can do that he must face his own demons. What will happen when he comes face to face with what kept him from his family? This is a great story that I highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2022-11-11 16:26:312022-11-18 09:08:24Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Bobbi Wagner
I was excited to see that TJ is a fellow Aussie and grabbed a copy asap.
Gunner is the third book of Hollins & Haring which I did not realise until I was three quarters of the way through. I will definitely be going back to read them but didn’t make a difference overall as it is a standalone.
This mystery thriller is set in beautiful state of Western Australia and London on the cusp of Coronavirus. The characters are interesting, and you will be invested in their stories. It is an emotional tale with a little bit humour, where you want to help in any way you can.
Debbie’s mum is fighting for her life and breaking her heart. She wants her family to be together, but a quarantine means that is impossible.
Hollins decides to tell his story but telling his story is raw and reveals his sorry a*$e to his flaws and all. Exposing himself once again to his past torments him and opens old wounds. But will it help him start to heal?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2022-11-11 16:26:232022-11-18 09:08:10Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Jenni Bishop
After reading and enjoying the companion book to this story I was excited to read more from this author and she didn’t disappoint. The attention to detail that the author makes really does mean that the book is enjoyable to read, its historical facts are accurate and add an extra depth to the story – it really does help you imagine what is going on whilst you are reading. Whilst this book isn’t my usual genre I have really enjoyed the authors writing. She kept my attention from beginning to end and her characters are wonderful to read about. The Cold War isn’t something I’m particularly knowledgeable about but the author definitely left me feeling like I have gained some new knowledge from reading her story. Overall a great read and one that I would highly recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Katie Matthewshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKatie Matthews2022-11-11 12:58:382022-11-18 09:03:08Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Katie Matthews
What a thrilling spy mystery. Miriam is doing her best to help keep the next war from happening. She has many adventures in this story. She’s people she shouldn’t, things she shouldn’t. Who does she trust? Can she believe in anyone? This is an story that will have you intrigued and pull you in from page 1. It is the follow up to The Brass Compass. The author did a wonderful job with the historical references. The characters were well developed. Between them and the plot, this is one historical suspense that you just can’t pass up.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2022-11-11 06:13:562022-11-18 09:11:29Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Shelly Kittell
This is a pretty intense thriller once Gary starts telling his story. At first, Gary sounds kind of like a schmo but he’s really kind of a nice guy that has some issues. He just needs some pushing that might be a “nag” or two. The story gets pretty intense. I loved the action and drama. Intermixed with the story, we go back to Debbie and her family dealing with Nan having Covid. There are some pretty tense moments. He goes through some tough emotions sharing this with Debbie to help her focus on something else. The writing was strong. The characters are very easy to relate to. The struggles are very real. The descriptions made you feel you were right there in the thick of things. A really good thriller that I highly recommend. I came in at book #3 (this one). I will be going back to catch up on the first two. A new favorite author for me. I love the back and forth between Gary and Debbie.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2022-11-11 05:57:002022-11-18 09:11:16Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Shelly Kittell
She’s seen him snap into action with bullets flying when their private detective assignments turned bad. It blew her mind.
He learned those deadly skills somewhere, and his grumpy-assed attitude, but whenever she broaches the subject, the shutters go up.
Gary only works when Debbie nags him. He’s content to survive on bad jokes and cheap beer wasting his days away in a West Australian beachside caravan park.
His past is behind him, far away in England, and that’s where he wants it to stay.
Then Debbie’s world collapses. Her beloved mum’s the first Bell’s Landing local to test positive for the killer COVID virus sweeping the globe.
She’s in despair, stuck in quarantine with her kids and Gary while husband Matt, her rock, is eight hundred kilometres away on a mine site. So, Gary turns reluctantly to the only thing that might distract her, his sorry tale.
And it all comes out. How he was cut from SAS recruitment just short of graduation, but a fringe-government organisation offered Gary a reprieve. If he could infiltrate a neo-Nazi hate group, they’d see he had a second chance at special forces wings. The impossible choices — ordered to participate in increasingly violent attacks, plagued with doubts about his shady handlers while his pregnant girlfriend tore her hair out over the lies he had to tell at home.
The story’s tearing Gary apart, but it’s all that keeps Debbie sane as her mum’s condition deteriorates.
To help his friend, Gary must face the demons that drove him from his own family.
Hollins & Haring #3, Gunner is a standalone mystery thriller set in Western Australia and London.
I’m from Perth, Western Australia. A lifelong lover of thrillers, romance, whodunnits and historical sagas.
I read for fun – beach reads – stories for a sunny afternoon or an armchair by the fire.
Perhaps it’s a reaction to my decades masquerading as a serious reporter or it might be the influence of four years in the English public school that produced such light entertainment luminaries as P.G. Wodehouse, C.S. Forester, Raymond Chandler and Simon Brett. The teachers wore capes, even mortarboards. Throw in a couple of brooms and it could have been Hogwarts.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/gunner.jpg320200itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2022-11-11 00:01:012022-12-07 21:13:33Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach
Painter of the Damned is the second book in the Painted Souls Series by Rob Samborn. It follows up from The Prisoner of Paradise (Book #1)- so if you are yet to read the first book, I highly recommend that you do as there is a lot of important details, character information, interconnected elements/threads, and intriguing backstory that you need to know in order to get the ultimate reading experience from this book. This second addition to the series is everything I could have hoped for, and more. Mr. Samborn didn’t rest on his laurels, he upped the ante and bringing us another well-written, multi-layered, gripping and incredibly vivid story- which is brimming full of action, danger, suspense, twists, adventure, intriguing historical details, secrets, tension, corruption, agendas, complexity, layers, mysteriousness, and that famous painting that we discovered is so much more than it seems. After everything that happened in book one and only narrowly escaping Venice, Nick and Julia just want to get home and close the door on their nightmare experiences. But fate has a different plan, and instead they find themselves captured and returned to The Floating City. The sinister and ancient order are not done with them yet, believing that Nick can lead them to an ancient and powerful manuscript that they have designs to use to change world order. But does someone have their own agenda? Something so powerful mustn’t fall into the wrong hands. But Nick doesn’t seem to be in any state to help crush their enemy- so will it be up to Julia to save the day instead? But who to trust? Will she unwittingly enlist the help of the enemy? As things unfold, tension mounts to an all-time high- making for a quite a riveting read!!! The saga is set to continue in Book #3- Bring it on!!!! Happy Reading!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2022-11-10 06:59:292022-11-18 09:01:18Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book #2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Angela Hayes
What a great read, I was hooked instantly and couldn’t put it down. I feel like I learned a lot from this book, and I need to learn more! This author had me feeling like I was in his world watching everything happening for myself. It was excellently done, and I can’t wait to see what else he may have 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 Westerman2022-11-07 18:42:222022-11-07 18:42:22Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Ashley Westerman
This book is not one I would have originally chosen to read, but the narrative peaked my interest as did the book the entire way through. It starts during a stent in Vietnamese years ago, where Rex did a wrong doing and leaves Don getting the punishment for it. Rex goes back to the States, not knowing what transpired after he left until years later when Don and his family had relocated to Mississippi. Don held a grudge for years and wanted to speak with Rex about it, but never gets the chance before his death. Rex finds out after Don’s death what transpired years ago, which brings them to the current day. However, Don’s death was thought to be a murder, but was it? Rex’s sons are being blamed for Don’s death. Don’s daughter, Anh, finds a journal that her dad had written in years ago that explains everything that happened. It’s a great story of how we cannot assume we know what other’s have gone through in life as everyone has a past. I highly recommend this book to readers!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Michelle Troyerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMichelle Troyer2022-11-07 06:47:322022-11-09 08:47:03Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Michelle Troyer
Having read and enjoyed the first book in this series, I was looking forward to this sequel and I was definitely not disappointed. Carrying on from the end of the previous story, I would personally recommend reading these novels in order, especially as the storyline is rather intriguing and complex. Nick and Julia O’Connor have escaped Venice with their lives following their nightmare vacation, and are trying to return home. However, before they can reach the American consulate, they are captured by Interpol and then returned to Venice. While Nick is detained, it’s up to Julia to save her husband, but she doesn’t know who she can trust. Especially when it’s the corrupt head of an ancient, enigmatic order, Salvatore della Porta, who’s behind Nick’s detainment.
Della Porta’s order are the ones who controls Paradise, “Tintoretto’s Renaissance masterpiece that’s also a purgatory for thousands of souls, including Nick’s soul mate from the 16th century”. Della Porta is after a mysterious manuscript which can either end his order or bring him world changing power, and he thinks Nick knows the location of this book. Meanwhile, Julia enlists the help of a young artist, Carlo Zuccaro, but is unaware that he is actually the order’s new Painter and warden of the damned. This is a gripping read, which had me hooked from start to finish. The descriptive narrative brings both the setting and characters vividly to life, making me feel fully immersed in the story. This was an entertaining and engaging read which I would definitely recommend.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2022-11-06 11:56:182022-11-08 09:35:35Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is book two in the Painted Souls series. Painter of the Damned follows Nick and Julia in Venice trying to save Nick’s soulmate from the 16th century. There is plenty of fast-paced action, love that transcends time, history that jumps from the page with vivid imagery, and characters you can get behind. Book two won’t leave you disappointed!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Brandy Vaughnhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBrandy Vaughn2022-11-06 00:01:192022-11-09 08:29:05Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Brandy Vaughn
Bycatch took me by complete surprise! There is so much depth and thought in the story that I am absolutely amazed! Alexander Blevens delivers with substantial, realistic, multi-level characters. I could almost hear the accent of Jake and Pigeon, feel the anger and confusion of Rex and Dung, and feel the tension between the Mississippi and Vietnamese fishermen. Blevens also uses amazing storytelling in the back and forth accounts of two men unwillingly thrown across each other’s paths in the midst of the war in Vietnam, and how their pasts collide later in life in the shrimping community in Mississippi. I could hear the bombs exploding in Vietnam, I could smell the strong seafood odor of the coast, and hear the rumbling motors of the shrimping boats. Bycatch and Alexander Blevens are two new favorites on my list!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Mandy Otthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMandy Ott2022-11-05 21:49:352022-11-08 09:52:02Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Mandy Ott
When your past catches up to you in the form of your biggest mistake you think you’ve made. WOW… this book is so well written and will make you think about what all our military went thru in various wars. What burdens some soldiers carry home with them.
Rex committed a crime he carried with him for so long. Arriving in Biloxi years after the war he never thought he would run into his “enemy” from his military time in Vietnam.
The burden that “Don” carried with him all those years. I loved the full circle that the author gave us in those last few can’t stop reading chapters. Seriously can be read in one sitting because you are going to want to know what happens to Rex, his 2 sons and the whole Nguyen family.
This book also is great at showing that no matter what the truth will come out. Lose mouths sink ships right? Well crimes catch up to you and the wrong will be made right.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Devon N Pulliamhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDevon N Pulliam2022-11-05 20:40:202022-11-08 09:33:57Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Devon Pulliam
It’s hard to believe that this is Alexander Blevens’ debut novel because this knocked me off my feet! The flow of the story is flawless and full of forgiveness and culture. I have already recommended to a few friends right after I finished!
Rex and Nguyen are both soldiers in the Vietnam war, and while they both survive those indescribable battles, they head home with their own secrets. Rex tries to raise his sons to the best of his ability, but he can see that his guilt is affecting them subconsciously. Will he be able to clean up his act and confess to his atrocities, or will his family inevitably pay his karmic dues?
I was at the edge of my seat for nearly this entire story. Full of suspense, redemption, and family, this book paints a picture of humanity at its heart. Pick up Bycatch today and settle in for the most captivating story from this marvelous author!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shannen Kernhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShannen Kern2022-11-05 18:38:092022-11-08 09:29:25Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Shannen Kern
Operation Blackbird is the second book in the Brass Compass series by Ellen Butler. Set in 1952, a CIA officer has to confront her past while saving a scientist trying to defect to East Berlin without alerting the KGB. You must grab this book if you enjoy historical thrillers with a strong female lead. I had already read the first book in this series, but this could be enjoyed as a standalone. Miriam Becker is a fantastic character who has seen the best and worst of people. I enjoy reading about her adventures because she is intelligent and very human. I enjoyed how the story differed from other spy thrillers dealing with the Cold War. There are sections I felt like I was holding my breath, waiting to find out what would happen. I always enjoy this author’s books and look forward to reading more from her.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sheri Schraderhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSheri Schrader2022-11-05 16:21:312022-11-08 09:27:35Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Sheri Schrader
“Bycatch”: the portion of a commercial fishing catch that consists of marine animals caught unintentionally. -Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged.
Rex Thompson made a huge mistake while serving in Vietnam and Nguyen Duc Dung not only witnessed the mistake but paid a huge price for it. Many years later and a world apart, their lives would come together again.
Rex wasn’t the best husband, father, employee, or friend and he’s trying to change that. Or at least he thought he was. Ruled by the bottle, Rex ends up making even more mistakes and one day escapes his two teenage sons to try to make amends. Little does he know that Jake and Pigeon are going to follow in his footsteps in an even worse manner.
Dung ends up dead one day and everyone is pointing the finger at Rex, except that he’s nowhere around. The only other logical conclusion is that his son’s have sunk the boat that they fell in love with, but lost, when their dad ran away.
Rex finally returns home to learn of Dung’s death and this stirs up many thoughts of the past. Did this have something to do with him afterall or is he just the bycatch?
This was an enjoyable novel full of mystery and intrigue. I found myself liking Rex from the beginning even though I knew he was not the most reputable person. This is a story of hatred and love, forgiveness and abandonment, of redemption and saving.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2022-11-05 15:34:112022-11-08 09:26:49Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Julie Johnson
I really enjoyed this historical Thriller. The author does and amazing job of transporting the reader back to a time of war and desperation and takes you right up to the present day. This is definately a story that makes you think and contemplate your actions in life as this story shows that your actions have consequences further down the line and not just for you but for other people.
This story is gripping, with secrets, lies, revenge and greed. You also feel the after affects of one person’s actions as they suffer either guilt and remorse for what happened but can’t seem to find a way to make amends for the past.
It is a moving story about war and how it affects people. When a crime is committed by Rex Thompson during war in Vietnam he is plagued by the guilt for years however he thinks his secret is safe. Until the daughter of an immigrant fisherman comes knocking. Rex’s sons are responsible for her father’s death and after uncovering his journal Anh comes to Rex looking for answers not only for her father’s death but also the past.
Now Rex has a tough decision to make, does he tell the truth about what happened all those years before or does he remain quiet and try and protect his sons?
It’s a gripping and emotional read as there are so many lives that are affected by one mistake in time.
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 Carr2022-11-05 07:22:442022-11-08 15:30:02Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Kerry Carr
Rex is a man that has been running from the crimes he committed in Vietnam over twenty years ago. When his sons drown an immigrant fisherman that witnessed their crime after scuttling a shrimp boat, Rex feels remorse but keeps quiet. When the fisherman’s daughter discovers her late father’s wartime journal, she approaches Rex with secrets her father never told anyone. Now that his sons are being forced to face their crimes, Rex is also forced to face his past. Rex must decide if he should continue living his life of lies or beg for mercy from those that he hurt.
Bycatch is a haunting tale of one man who is forced to come face to face with his past and the harm it caused. With multiple timelines the reader can see into the past as the Vietnam war is taking place, while reading about the shrimping industry and the characters in present day Biloxi, Mississippi. When a theft is committed in Vietnam during the war, the parties involved go their separate ways and think that they will never see the other again. Until one fateful day when they run into each other decades later in Biloxi, Mississippi. Things start to unravel as one man dies and the other is forced to face the consequences of his past actions. A beautiful and haunting tale of war, greed, and the consequences of bad choices.
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 Barnes2022-11-04 17:20:012022-11-08 09:24:27Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
Rex Thompson has had an interesting life, he has made many a mistake and ultimately made the wrong choices both personally and professionally, but the one he regrets the most is while he was a young man serving his country in the Vietnam War, where he committed a felony before he finished his last tour, he has never spoken about it since, especially since moving to Biloxi Bay and becoming a shrimp fisherman. Anh Truong is the daughter of a Vietnamese immigrant living in the small town of Biloxi Bay with her parents, they have a well off family thanks to the hard work of her parents growing their shrimping business from scratch when they arrived into the country.
Rex has tried to do the best he can for his family, but between working and sinking into his vices, he struggles to stay close to his sons, that is until they come to visit one summer and stayed, but it has not been smooth sailing for these three, as Rex struggled against his vices again and his sons ending up paying for it when they had to look after themselves from a young age, however, without a good role model, they have grown into a couple of ne’er do wells, filled with resentment. One day they are left to their own devices and caught in a strong belief that a particular fisherman had done them wrong, they decide to scuttle his boat, what they do not know is that he was not able to escape and drowned.
As Anh and her family try to come to terms with their loss, she finds a journal her father had kept hidden, it is not east reading for her as it is filled with his experiences during the Vietnam War and the depth of the feelings associated with it. Meanwhile, Rex finds out about the drowned fisherman and realises that it was the man who caught him committing his felony and whom he has avoided while living in the same town, he also works out that it was his two sons who committed the crime, so as the repercussions of his life choices become clear, he has another choice to make, but will it be the right one this time? This is a tale of greed, guilt, lies and forgiveness as the pasts of two men entangle with the present, amid cultural clashes in a small town on the Mississipi Gulf Ciast and as you untangle this web of intrigue, you will be pulled into a history lesson, as well as a lesson in choices and consequences which keeps you hooked throughout.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Roxsanne Lesieurhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRoxsanne Lesieur2022-11-04 09:40:042022-11-08 09:48:11Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.
I absolutely loved the book that was written prior to this one. I was hooked with this one just as much, maybe even more! The story is a thrill ride, and you never know what will happen next!
First off, I must say visually speaking the book was amazing. The fine details of art and places, really brought the story to life for me, and truly held me to the end. Of course Nick and his spouse were great characters as well. I love how as you read, the story builds, suspense, action, and hope re strong Nick is wanting to free those in need of help. (relation to the first book) and there is danger at every turn. I love the writing and how incredible this book is! Its a divine read, and seriously fantastic! Loved this one!
Wonderful follow up to the first book. This one had its own magic on me as the prior, I could not put it down. A must read for sure! Highly recommend this must read book, author and series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorrene Huismanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorrene Huisman2022-11-04 07:35:062022-11-08 09:23:43Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Lorrene Huisman
She’s seen him snap into action with bullets flying when their private detective assignments turned bad. It blew her mind.
He learned those deadly skills somewhere, and his grumpy-assed attitude, but whenever she broaches the subject, the shutters go up.
Gary only works when Debbie nags him. He’s content to survive on bad jokes and cheap beer wasting his days away in a West Australian beachside caravan park.
His past is behind him, far away in England, and that’s where he wants it to stay.
Then Debbie’s world collapses. Her beloved mum’s the first Bell’s Landing local to test positive for the killer COVID virus sweeping the globe.
She’s in despair, stuck in quarantine with her kids and Gary while husband Matt, her rock, is eight hundred kilometres away on a mine site. So, Gary turns reluctantly to the only thing that might distract her, his sorry tale.
And it all comes out. How he was cut from SAS recruitment just short of graduation, but a fringe-government organisation offered Gary a reprieve. If he could infiltrate a neo-Nazi hate group, they’d see he had a second chance at special forces wings. The impossible choices — ordered to participate in increasingly violent attacks, plagued with doubts about his shady handlers while his pregnant girlfriend tore her hair out over the lies he had to tell at home.
The story’s tearing Gary apart, but it’s all that keeps Debbie sane as her mum’s condition deteriorates.
To help his friend, Gary must face the demons that drove him from his own family.
Hollins & Haring #3, Gunner is a standalone mystery thriller set in Western Australia and London.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/TJ-BEACH-GUNNER-PREORDER.png750750itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2022-11-04 00:02:182022-12-07 21:14:42🕵🏻♀️~⛓️~🔪~⚰️ PREORDER 🕵🏻♀️~⛓️~🔪~⚰️ Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach
This book is a fantastic story about soldiers in the Vietnam war. Rex and Nguyen both fought in the Vietnam war and they both survived. However when they returned they were not the same. It is now 25 years after the war and this story focuses on the cultural conflict they face back in the south. There are crimes committed and they both are involved in a different battle back home. These men crossed paths back in Vietnam, and the secrets that they hold follow them back home. When they cross paths later in life the secret they hold begins to bubble over. And it ends in one man’s death. I cannot explain adequately how good this book was. It was a great look at a story of soldiers in the Vietnam war and the cultural conflict that continued back home. It also is a good look at the culture in the gulf and the lives of fisherman. The author vividly describes life in the Mississippi region and made me feel as if I was there. This was a wonderfully crafted tale that kept me wanting more. This is such a beautiful story that depicted multiple sides of humanity, but the good and the bad.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2022-11-03 18:44:542022-11-08 09:20:45Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Christine Baranek
Painter of the Damned is the second book after the compelling The Prisoner of Paradise in the Painted Souls series. Our characters find themselves in a deadly game of cat and mouse only to be ensnared by a powerful and secret Order who will stop at nothing until they get what they want.
This unique historical thriller with its multi layered plot and cleverly entwined threads form a historical thriller like no other except its predecessor. It is rich in history and is a smooth blend of fantasy and magical realism as Robs narrative takes us amongst the beauty and darkness of Venice once again transporting the reader.
With corruption, conspiracies, danger lurking, palpable suspense, immense tension and twisty turns it is a page turner that you can immense yourself in and become lost to another time and place.
If you are a lover of historical thrillers and the wonders Outlander you are going to love this series hands down.
Waiting in anticipation of what Rob brings us next.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2022-11-03 16:01:062022-11-08 09:45:22Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Jenni Bishop
Incredible sequel! Nick and his wife are still on their adventures in Venice, Italy. They would love to get home to Boston but Interpol is wrecking their plans. The adventure, drama, and intrigue are amazing. This book sucks you right back in. You can’t put it down. You have to follow to find out what’s going to happen. Nick is still trying to help free those in the Paradise painting. I love this series and hope to see more. I devour these up and hope to get my husband hooked on them.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2022-11-03 07:40:452022-11-08 09:16:59Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Shelly Kittell
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