Fiction – Book Reader Magazine

A NEW YORK LADY IN HELLDORADO by V.C. Williams

A NEW YORK LADY IN HELLDORADO by V.C. Williams

A notorious killer changed the life of a young Victorian woman. Sarah Herring, now forgotten, was the first woman to win a case in the US Supreme Court without a man’s help. But the young New York schoolteacher didn’t get there overnight. It took hard work and guts.
Arriving in Tombstone in October 1881, Sarah discovers the streets of the Territory’s richest town are not paved in silver but soaked in blood. Finding her purpose here seems crazy. Despite her mother’s schemes, it’s not marriage. But when idealistic, intelligent Sarah is enlisted by her attorney father to help Wyatt Earp, charged with murder, her perspective begins to change. The horrific news reported by Thomas Sorin, Sarah’s friend and an attractive distraction, makes national headlines while she faces threats from Wyatt’s jealous mistress and deadly outlaws. Wyatt’s shocking honesty opens her mind to her strength and passion: the law. But Thomas is a surprise. She loves him, too
Believing in Sarah and her dream, Thomas convinces her to pursue the law while he chases his mining ambitions, delaying marriage. But her father coldly refuses to tutor her, treating her request as a passing fancy. Searching out other options, she finds more closed doors and reluctantly returns to teaching. She feels lost and alone. Yet, when tragedy strikes, Sarah demonstrates that a lady of honor and charm can show the men they might have it wrong.

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Godless Armageddon by Scott Coon

Godless Armageddon by Scott Coon

“Godless Armageddon” is a visionary and ambitious journey that defies traditional storytelling to deliver a profound and imaginative exploration of the afterlife. At its core, this novel is a battle for redemption, identity, and purpose. Only one that takes place in a realm where individuals exist as ethereal clouds, transforming and uniting into vibrantly colored storm-behemoths that wage cosmic warfare on one another.

Thomas Jefferson Stoneshield VII, a WW2 soldier from a long line of warriors, dies while storming the beaches of Normandy. He ascends to a peculiar afterlife and becomes embroiled in a struggle between two godlike beings, with the future of all existence at stake. Along the way, he confronts haunting echoes of his past life, his own repressed desires, and the power of unyielding faith and despair.

The novel defies convenient classification. In parts, it reminded me of “What Dreams May Come” by Richard Matheson, but more dreamlike, rendered as an acid trip. Scott Coon masterfully balances the surreal and the relatable, seamlessly switching between the gritty horrors of WW2 and abstract realms of ethereal energy. Despite its complex and fantastical premise, the plot is clear and straightforward, grounded and driven by believable characters.

Whether you approach it for its emotional depth, philosophical insights, or sheer creativity, Godless Armageddon is a tour de force. It will challenge your notions of faith, morality, and what it means to truly live — or to truly die. Coon’s ability to render this chaotic, otherworldly setting with such clarity and resonance is a testament to his skill as a storyteller.

-Damir Salkovic, author of Collapse Years

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Vatican Daughter by Joni Marie Iraci

Vatican Daughter by Joni Marie Iraci

Inspired by the 1859 kidnappings of Jewish children by Pope Pius IX, “VATICAN DAUGHTER,”(78,939 words) tells the story of JOSEPH MORRIS, the first American Pope, who as he’s about to ascend the papal throne is driven by guilt to confess an indiscretion to traditionalist CARDINAL GUILO ROSELLI. News of the pope’s affair with journalist, SOPHIA TRAVATO, and the birth of the pope’s child, unleashes a crime spree starting with the kidnapping of the baby, Nevaeh.

Twelve years pass, and Sophia, with only vague memories of her past, lives in Venice with the Benedictine nuns. In the small watery city, she’s content believing she was found nearly drowned. Her only bit of freedom is a job with famed mask-maker, LORENZO MERCURI at his small shop at the foot of the Rialto bridge. When a tourist asks Sophia to hold her baby, memories of her daughter begin to flood back. Aware of the danger of rescuing her daughter from the most powerful entity on earth, Sophia puts her trust in Lorenzo who agrees to drive her to Rome.

On the road, Sophia learns Lorenzo’s in the employ of SEVERINO POVERELLI, a Neapolitan thug hired by Cardinal Roselli to keep tabs on Sophia. Sophia escapes and finds her way to Trastevere, the bohemian section of Rome, where she once lived with her motherly, landlady, LAURETTA JENCO. MEANWHILE, Neveah is kept sequestered behind the walls of Vatican City where she’s tutored by the Bibliotheca of the Vatican Archives, CARDINAL ALFONSO ALEO. Neveah, due to her isolated upbringing, is no ordinary twelve-year-old. She’s insightful and wise beyond her years. MEANWHILE, CHRIS DEMARCO, a former colleague of Sophia’s, who initially introduced her to Morris, is in Rome to interview the pope but is mainly in search of answers regarding Sophia’s disappearance.

Pope Joseph and Cardinal Roselli are troubled by him nosing around as he’s aware of the pope’s past. Chris’ research leads him to Lauretta and ultimately to Sophia. Sophia fears the truth will not be believed, but Lauretta relates the story of past papal kidnappings. Lauretta summons her cousin, ALESSANDRO JENCO, an officer of the Ministry of the Interior, to advise Sophia. He informs Sophia the pope is above the law and cannot be convicted of a crime, but vows to find a way to help her. MEANWHILE, the pope turns a blind eye to Cardinal Roselli’s plot to eliminate all threats to the papacy and the church. He unleashes a murderous spree resulting in the death of his administrative assistant, TIM DANIELS, (who set up inner office cameras when he suspected the cardinal’s sinister plans,) the poisoning of Cardinal Aleo, and the murder of several of Alessandro’s men. Before his poisoning, Cardinal Aleo moves Nevaeh to a Zen Monastery on the cusp of Trastevere. Cardinal Aleo is hospitalized. Sophia, during an arranged incognito audience with the pope, confronts him to no avail. Sophia visits Cardinal Aleo where she is reunited with her tentative daughter.

Cardinal Roselli, fearing he will be the papal scapegoat, flees to his native South America where he succumbs to a rare spider bite. The pope believes his position is secure and there is no evidence of his wrongdoing. Chris DeMarco obtained DNA in a recent visit with the pope. He turns it over to the Vatican police before returning to his New York Office. A budding romance between Sophia and Alessandro forced him to give up his fight for her. However, a package waiting in his New York office contains a USB drive with tangible evidence of the plot against Sophia, as well as the details of the pope’s involvement. Chris sets out for Rome to expose the Vatican’s treachery and to get justice for Sophia and Nevaeh. “Vatican Daughter,” is set in Rome and Venice with a brief stop in Magallanes, Chile, and New York City. The sights, sounds, smells, and ambiance of Italy are infused within the story and serve to immerse the reader not only in the plausible, suspenseful plot but in the landscape as well. “The Women of the 13th Rione,” continues the story of Sophia and Nevaeh and is complete at 87,292 words. Both novels can stand alone.

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Godless Armageddon by Scott Coon

Godless Armageddon by Scott Coon

After Thom dies, he uses weaponized memories to battle two false gods bent on Armageddon, as well as his own deeply repressed homosexuality.

Thomas Jefferson Stoneshield VII dies in World War II and enters a godless afterlife where souls are clouds upon a golden ocean surrounding the Earth. He blames himself for ending the legacy carried in his name. He doesn’t know why he never married because he’s buried it too deep: Thom is gay.
To help him, Thom’s dad reaches out from inside a soul well—a monster made of captured souls. But his dad is unable to communicate. Instead, Thom keeps rewatching his dad’s death in World War I, while his dad keeps apologizing for something. Determined to rescue his father, Thom teaches himself how to fight the soul wells with weaponized memories. His fellow soldier, David Lowenstein, wants to save his parents. Others want Thom to stop the soul wells before they unleash Earth’s Armageddon and consume all souls, living and dead.
But Thom just wants to save his dad and atone for ending his family name.

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The Marfa Blues: searching for treasure by John Egenes

The Marfa Blues: searching for treasure by John Egenes

Vera DeSota runs a cafe in Marfa, Texas in 1968. The cowboys and truckers who come in fantasize and hope for a chance with her, but she enjoys her solitary life and isn’t ready to settle down with anyone. Somehow, Vera seems to collect strays—lost and wayward people looking for second chances. A 14-year-old girl, two hippie boys, and a scared young artist manage to find their way into Vera’s life and suddenly, she’s joining them in a search for buried treasure in the badlands of the rugged desert of Southwest Texas.

They will learn what finding treasure really means.

A classic yarn, full of surprises, with all the right elements: love and loss, hope and despair, drug dealers and cloned cows, and the mysterious Marfa Lights.

From the author of the award-winning “Man & Horse: The Long Ride Across America.”

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The Dark Mother Collector’s Edition

About The Dark Mother Collector’s Edition:

The Dark Mother Collector’s Edition is a haunting tapestry of myth, magic, and maternal power. This expanded edition brings together a series of interconnected stories that unravel the dark origins of the Fates—three goddess sisters born from grief and vengeance. Each tale, woven from the fabric of life and death, explores the sacred feminine in all her forms: warrior, mother, judge, and creator.

From a warlock’s brutal betrayal to a vampire’s forbidden love, from Death’s sacrifice to the rise of elemental goddesses, these stories span time, dimensions, and divine realms.
In this powerful collector’s edition, award-winning author Jamilette Cintron delves deeper into the mythos of the Fates and their children, revealing the raw emotions and sacred truths that drive them. It’s a tribute to women who rise after ruin—and a warning to those who underestimate the wrath of goddesses.

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Genna’s Fight by Sheldon D. Newton

Genna’s Fight by Sheldon D. Newton

Genna, a beautiful young lady looking forward to life.

Tom, a sharp, handsome, smooth-talking young man who falls for Genna. Love. Marriage. A Son. And then it happens. And what happens will keep your eyes glued on every page until the very end. This Suspense Thriller is filled with mystery with twists and turns that causes one to wonder what will happen next. Get your copy of this fascinating novel and discover why Arya Fomonyuy of Readers Favorite gives it 5 STARS, stating, “Genna’s Fight is a moving story that is character-driven and that masterfully deals with the themes of violence, domestic abuse, and freedom. I enjoyed every bit of this story.”

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Big Music Gillian Wills Hawkeye Publishing

About Big Music Gillian Wills Hawkeye Publishing:

Beat is given a chance to shine when she is appointed dean of Turalong Music School, but her role is not what it seems. Fine tuning this institution is like playing a cracked violin with broken strings. She’s determined to revive the school’s reputation despite gender bias, staff conflict, fraud, betrayal, a famous composer’s ghost and a predatory university. Beat loves the wild mashes of sound: trumpets, electric guitars, flutes and saxophones which blaze all day and night – indeed the book has its own soundtrack – but she’s barely able to keep the school together, let alone her home life on her beloved hobby farm. Keen to unify her squabbling colleagues from opposite musical traditions, she puts a fresh spin on programming to show audiences something new: a combined Beethoven and rock festival. Music or politics? What will be her magnum opus?

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Fool’s Gold Folly by J.D.R. Hawkins

Fool’s Gold Folly by J.D.R. Hawkins

It has been four years since the Civil War ended, and westward expansion seems imminent. Thirsty for adventure, Patrick Mulligan, a young Irish immigrant, learns of gold being discovered in Colorado Territory, so he moves his family from Pennsylvania farmland to the wilderness. Gold lust lures him to the small town of Breckenridge, where he befriends several Irish immigrants and miners. One man in particular, Silas Garvey, strikes Patrick’s fancy and the two become fast friends. But Silas has a dark secret and is doomed due to chronic illness. Although Patrick adores the old man, he knows there is danger lurking about. Will Patrick’s golden opportunity materialize? And will his fantasy of striking it rich be fulfilled? Or will he fall victim to the threat that looms in the shadows?

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Will’s Trusty Guide to Wills and Trusts by Will Worsham

Will’s Trusty Guide to Wills and Trusts by Will Worsham

Will’s Trusty Guide to Wills and Trusts by attorney Will Worsham is a straightforward, essential resource for securing your legacy and protecting your loved ones. This guide simplifies estate planning, breaking down complex legal concepts into clear, actionable steps.

With expert insights, real-life examples, and practical advice, Worsham explains the key differences between wills and trusts, how to avoid probate, and strategies to minimize taxes while maximizing financial security. Designed for beginners and experienced planners alike, this book empowers readers to take control of their assets with confidence. If you want to ensure your wishes are honored and your family is protected from unnecessary legal hurdles, Will’s Trusty Guide to Wills and Trusts is a must-read.

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A DRESS THE COLOR OF THE SKY by Jennifer Irwin

A DRESS THE COLOR OF THE SKY by Jennifer Irwin

For too many years, Prudence Aldrich has been numbing the pain in her life with random sexual encounters. Her marriage to cold, self-centered Nick is, not surprisingly, on the rocks. But after several dangerous experiences with strangers, Prudence finally realizes she needs therapy to stop her self-destructive behavior, and so she checks into the Serenity Hills rehab center.

Prudence blames herself for her irresponsible behavior and is filled with self-loathing. She’s convinced she is completely at fault for Nick’s manipulative attitude and believes with therapy, she can return their relationship to its idyllic beginnings. However, her therapist and the other members of her rehab group see the person behind the pain. As Prudence learns more about herself and the reasons for her behavior, including startling revelations about her childhood, she begins to understand the basis for her lack of sexual self-respect. She also learns she is not entirely to blame for the failure of her marriage. With the positive reinforcement of everyone at Serenity Hills, Prudence learns not to define herself by her past. But moving forward would mean letting go of Nick for good, and Prudence isn’t sure she can.

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A DRESS THE COLOR OF THE MOON by Jennifer Irwin

A DRESS THE COLOR OF THE MOON by Jennifer Irwin

Prudence Aldrich is a sex addict. Five weeks ago, she checked into the Serenity Hills rehab center to prevent that addiction from ruining every important relationship in her life. Now Prue must face the trail of destruction she left behind, including mending the broken bond with her teenage son, finalizing the divorce from her husband, Nick, and using a newly learned set of skills to ward off her insatiable cravings for male attention—a compulsion that puts her friendship with lifelong pal Lily to the test.

Adding ever further complications to the hurdles in her path is the arrival into town of Alistair Prescott, her in-rehab romantic obsession, and the one person in the world most capable of throwing Prue off her recovery. Meanwhile, Serenity Hills counselor Mike Sullivan is undergoing a crisis of his own—one that will drive him to the rediscovery of a lifelong passion . . . and causing him to cross paths again with Prue, his former patient.

A Dress the Color of the Moon tracks the rocky and sometimes disastrous path to recovery—a recovery that will require Prudence and her friends to face down the demons of their pasts while learning to accept the fearful uncertainty that comes with living life on your own two feet.

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Learn French Through 15 Captivating Short Stories! by Nicole Cazaubon

Learn French Through 15 Captivating Short Stories! by Nicole Cazaubon

“Learn French Through 15 Captivating Short Stories” is an engaging and immersive resource designed for English speakers who wish to embark on a journey of language learning through the art of storytelling. This unique book combines the beauty of the French language with rich narratives that transport readers across various regions of France, allowing them to experience the culture, traditions, and everyday life of the French people.
Each of the fifteen stories is carefully crafted to not only entertain but also educate. Readers will meet relatable characters, from a young aspiring pastry chef in Paris to a family enjoying a summer vacation in Provence, and a couple revisiting their romantic past in the charming streets of Montmartre. These captivating tales are filled with humor, emotion, and adventure, making the learning process enjoyable and memorable.
As you read, you will encounter natural dialogues that reflect authentic conversations in everyday French. Each story is accompanied by summaries that reinforce comprehension, as well as full translation of the French version and translations of key vocabulary and expressions to enhance your learning experience. The book also includes multiple-choice questions at the end of each chapter, allowing you to test your understanding and solidify your knowledge.
Whether you are on a bus, train, or simply relaxing at home, this book is designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. You can take your time to savor each story, reflecting on the cultural insights and the language used. The immersive approach encourages you to engage with the text, making it an ideal companion for learners at any level.
In addition to improving your language skills, “Learn French Through 15 Captivating Short Stories” invites you to explore the enchanting world of France. From the picturesque landscapes of the countryside to the bustling cafes of Paris, each story provides a glimpse into the heart of French culture, inspiring you to dream of your own adventures in this beautiful country.
Join us on this journey and unlock the door to the French language through captivating stories that will leave you inspired, informed, and eager to learn more. Whether you are preparing for a trip to France or simply looking to enrich your language skills, this book is your gateway to a world of French language and culture.

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Endless Leviathan by Will Ballantyne

Endless Leviathan by Will Ballantyne

Part three of the ongoing Random Guy series.
Have you ever been on a cruise that you thought would never end?
Surrounded by serial killers and Cells, Tavie is trapped in an all-encompassing hell aboard the cruise ship, Marie Celeste. Thus, when Mary, a fellow traveller, tells her that there may be a way to escape, Tavie is all in.
Spurred by her conviction that Andrew may still be alive, she, Mary, and Conrad fight to survive an onslaught of bloodthirsty passengers to make it back to the real world. But will the omnipresent puppet master, John Cooper scupper their plans?

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On the Edge (of a Stroke) by Wallace Briggs

On the Edge (of a Stroke) by Wallace Briggs

Tom Bradley, recovering from a stroke, discovers an inner self who can also hear the thoughts of others nearby. In the park where he exercises daily, he overhears a robbery plot and reports it to the police.
The plotters are arrested and over two hundred thousand pounds of drug related profits are impounded. The gang threatens to snatch Tom’s wife, if Tom does not return the cash. They kidnap Tricia as insurance. The police botch an arrest attempt and the villain, K, escapes with the cash without identifying Tricia’s location. K flees but is arrested and taken into custody, without the cash.
Tom interrogates K and locates the missing cash. He probes K’s mind to reveal Tricia’s location, except, Tricia has already been moved.
Friends come to aid Tom’s search, but a gunshot casualty mars the rescue. The captured shooter is interrogated by Tom’s mind probe. Can he recover the love of his life and the missing cash?

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Sleeping Eagles Part One by Carole McEntee-Taylor

About Sleeping Eagles Part One by Carole McEntee-Taylor

The Great War is finally over, but the world is not at peace. Across Europe and America revolution is in the air, the authorities stretched to the limit as they try to prevent mutinies in the Armed Forces and strikes and protests by a weary population determined to ensure they have the better lives they were promised.

Frances and Giuseppe are enjoying their new life in America, until circumstances alter their plans and everything changes. Frances is grateful to have made new friends, but will she regret giving them her trust? Meanwhile Concetta can’t wait to see her brother again, but does fate have other ideas?

With civil unrest growing in Britain Herbert and Lettie work to find those responsible and warn Len to increase security on the Pemberton Estate. But how can he ensure he is making the right decisions? Then Herbert makes a mistake and Lettie finds herself in danger.

While peace talks take place in Versailles Henrietta’s life takes an unexpected turn and she makes a decision that will change her life completely.

The Eagle Quartet is the follow up series to Secret Lives which tells the stories of several families before and through the Great War. Sleeping Eagles is the third book in the series and is set in Britain, America and Australia. It is in two parts. Part 1 covers the 1920s with Part 2 continuing the story into the 1930s.

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Author Bio

I am the author and publisher of military history, historical fiction, spiritual books and memoirs. Published by Pen and Sword, my military history books include Herbert Columbine VC, Surviving the Nazi Onslaught, A Battle Too Far, From Colonial Warrior to Western Front Flyer, The Battle of Bellewaarde 1915, A History of Coalhouse Fort and A History of Women’s Lives in Scunthorpe. I worked for several years in the Military Corrective Training Centre, Colchester, the British Forces’ only military prison, culminating in a history of the establishment written in the words of those who were there, Military Detention Colchester. I also publish a series of books under the banner Real Lives. Memories in Print which is a free service to ensure our history does not get forgotten. Please see my website for more details.

To date I have written twenty six novels. Of these four are sagas, Lives Apart: A WW 2 Chronicle (5 books), Obsession (5 books), Secret Lives (6 books) and A One Way Ticket (4 books). I have also written three stand alone novels: Betrayed; Love, Resistance, Betrayal and Hunting Shadows. I also ghost write novels and biographies privately and for Story Terrace.

I decided after finishing Obsession that I needed a little break from the Second World War so perhaps I should write about the Great War instead. I also wanted to write something that offered a theory as to how we have ended up with the world we are currently living in. This was a big undertaking as it would need to be several books and I didn’t want it all to be one long series as people, quite understandably, prefer to buy a series once the whole thing is written. Nothing worse than being engrossed in a series and not knowing what happens at the end because the author didn’t get to finish it. I’m not getting any younger so I decided to err on the side of caution and write several series, that could be read as stand alone series. That way if I don’t get to the end you won’t miss out. I knew where I wanted the books to finish, so it was just a case of writing the rest! After some thought I decided to start just before the Great War and Secret Lives was born. The six book series follows the lives of several families in the UK and Europe before and during the Great War, begins in 1913 and ends in 1918. The Eagle Quartet follows on from Secret Lives and
I am currently halfway through writing the final book of the series. Dark Eagles Rising is in two parts and is set in Germany, Austria and Italy through the 1920s and 1930s and, as the blurb above says, Sleeping Eagles is set in America, Britain and Australia with Part One set in the 1920s and Part Two in the 1930s. Once this is finished the plan is to start the next series which will follow the characters through WW2. All books are available in kindle and paperback from Amazon and other internet retailers or you can borrow them from your library.

The Delilah Enigma by Donald de Brier

The Delilah Enigma by Donald de Brier

Set in London against the backdrop of World War II, THE DELILAH ENIGMA follows Lt. Sarah Leach, an MI6 British officer, and Robert Johnston, an American lawyer with the OSS, as they trade secrets and sex while gathering intelligence for the Allied war effort. Together they track the growing German resistance and assassination plot against Hitler and develop assets for the impending D-Day invasion, dangerous work that leads to Sarah’s capture by the SS in France. Her whereabouts are leaked by friends at Bletchley Park, and Robert bands together an unlikely group, including their Jewish refugee friend Hannah, to rescue her. As one enigma is resolved a new one appears: Will Sarah and Robert’s budding relationship survive the war? Historically accurate events and a sweeping cast of real and fictious characters round out this “terrific read.” FREE 03/24-03/28.

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