Authors On The Rise Book Reviews USA

Secret of the Sands
-Rai Aren & Tavius E.

The sands of Egypt’s past may hold the key to unlocking the future

The Kierani king underestimated the power it had. The Kierani priests too did not know the danger it possessed. Only the Chosen One knew of its true capabilities. But, the Kierani people will soon learn its true potential.

In present-day Egypt, archaeologists Alex and Mitch stumble upon the find of a lifetime, but are puzzled by its implications. The scrolls, key notes and obelisk are in pristine condition, but what do they mean? Where did they come from? Now, Alex and Mitch must decide between hiding the power that they have found or unveiling it and receiving the archaeological immortality they have slaved over years to achieve.

The debut novel from Rai Aren & Tavius E. is a well-written book that shows how passionate the writers are about Egyptology. The book setup creates an interesting combination of old and new and causes the reader to find out what happens next.

Their detailed storytelling paints a picture of ancient Egypt in all its glory. The reader feels they are a part of the book, living amongst the Kierani people. The end of the novel leaves the reader curious and wanting more. This reader can hardly wait for the sequel, “Destiny of the Sands.” – 4 STARS, Reviewed by Leigh O’Donovan, Authors on the Rise Book Reviews

EVIL, TIMES TWO

Pressley Barclay was a well-known horror author looking for some inspiration. When he bought a foreboding gothic, country estate with a checkered past, he thought he found exactly what he needed.
But, when he finds the mirror that was meant to be kept hidden, he is transported to another world. This world is dark and mysterious and inhabited by the two. Can Pressley solve the centuries-old mystery and free the two from their purgatory?
Award-winning writer Andrea Dean Van Scoyoc creates a dark and sinister tale that strikes fear into even the most seasoned horror reader. Her attention to detail is unparalleled and paints a world of despair.
Van Scoyoc does a masterful job in shocking the reader. Her in-depth narration of the murderous deeds of the two will astonish the reader to his or her core. “The Two” is truly evil and will be a favorite in any horror connoisseur’s library. -4 Stars

D.H. Brown's Honor Due is about a retired Army Special Operations Major, who is thrown back into the arena of warfare. “Once a special op's warrior always special op's warrior”. You don't ever let your guard down. You learn things about people and their ways that you wish you never had. You always stay prepared.

The Major takes one look at the guy who entered his local watering hole and the warning bells of survival start to ring. He doesn't ignore these bells because they have served him well his whole adult life and kept him alive in some of the worse battles in Vietnam. Looking at this young man, the Major knows three things. One, someone wants him dead. Two, someone has made the ultimate mistake of bringing him back into the game of warfare. Three, he is going to have to kill this guy.

Finding his longtime friend from Vietnam tortured to death was a low blow and one someone would pay for. The Major is now set on a mission of revenge and he’s back in a zone – predator vs. prey. There’s a blood debt that must be paid and he won’t stop until it is paid in full.

D.H. Brown has written a top-notch novel. The suspense that he has put in this book will keep you turning the pages or tossing and turning through the night if you dare put it down before reaching it’s end. In his debut novel he shows the reader that he has mastered the art bringing the reader inside his world. You won’t only read Brown’s novel – you will feel his characters to your very core.

D.H. Brown has earned a space on my book shelf with this superb tale and I look forward to reading more of his work. This is just the beginning of the Citizen Warrior Series and I wait anxiously for the next. Excellent work and highly recommended! 5-Stars, Reviewed by Michael S. Timlin, Authors on the Rise Book Reviews.

You have grown up hating the town you live in and want to get out as soon possible. Yet as with a lot of people’s dreams, some just don't come true. Life happens or so it does for Tommy O’Brien, Keene’s main character.

O’Brien is living the life most folks fall into, marriage, children and the usual 40 hour grind. As if life isn’t hard on it’s on merit, O’Brien is faced with several life changing events one so devastating it leaves him literally on the edge of death. He’s not only lost his job at the factory but he’s found out he has terminal cancer. He’s scared and he’s alone in his disease because the last thing he wanted was his wife to worry. What was he going to do?

Overwhelmed by the events that happen in his life O’Brien turns to his friends; after all he can’t keep it bottled up inside him because he knows if he does his wife and their son will be left with absolutely nothing. Sitting in the car with his best friends, John and Sherm, they devise a plan that hopefully will help him care for his family in his departure from this earth. The plan has to be carried out quickly though, because time is something O’Brien doesn't have the luxury of.

Brian Keene's “Terminal”, is truly a page turner. I really enjoyed this book. Do you want to know what happens to O’Brien and his family? How are John and Sherm going to help their buddy in his time of need? I seriously suggest you read the book and find out! You will not be disappointed; Keene's spun an unforeseen heartwarming tale woven with love, friendship and a touch of the super natural. 4 Stars - Reviewed by Michael S. Timlin, Authors on the Rise Book Reviews

Frank Berry's novel Greatest Game is a compelling read. The question is which is the Greatest Game? Is it the world games put on by World Wide Games or is it the race to control the oil reserves in China?

Berry has woven a great story of espionage, love and revenge. Frank Thro is the ultimate hero in this story. He suffers the death of his father and of his teammates. And if that is not enough for one’s plate, betrayal by a life long friend. Luckily, he gains the love of a CIA operative, who together solve the greatest mystery of the true question at hand “which is the greatest game?”

Frank Berry has done an excellent job with Greatest Game. The story is well written and easy to follow. Franks ability to bring his story alive is extraordinary. You the reader will find yourself entranced, I would really be surprised to find your book with dog eared pages. You will not want to put this down once you start; so don't start it on a night when you want to get some sleep!
5 stars

Bobby Ozuna's novel the Proud Souls is a remarkable read. Seymour is a small town in Texas and it has developed quite a history in the last six years. Justin Olerude Bower, the Rev. Hillard Ray Polk, Ralph Winslow Parison and the so called “ town whore” Tessa Jameson have been living the last six years in their own self induced personal prison.
Justin has lost his wife and son in an accident. He has spent the last six years in a bottle, just waiting to die. Ralph Parison is in the truck that crashes into Justin and his family, for which he just can't forgive himself. The Rev. Polk, lives in his prison, feeling as though he has lost Justin's soul. Tessa's prison is one of torn feelings toward Justin, she’s fallen in love with a man who doesn't want to live.
Each character in this novel will come alive and you will feel their desperation, their sadness and loneliness. You will come to wonder, what if my life was to come to these types of problems. How would I handle such a difficult time? Who would I turn too? Who would really be able to help me? Who would make me make the right decisions in life? And the most important question of all. Would I choose life or death or choose to live with the pain of losing the people you loved the most.
Bobby Ozuna has done a spectacular job in writing this novel. His writing style is one that will bring his characters to life. He has the ability to take your feelings on a roller coaster and leave you needing to turn the pages. This is a must read. You, the reader, will not regret reading this book, even though it will mean you will be sacrificing a few nights sleep just because you can’t put it down. 4.5 stars - Reviewed by Michael Timlin - Authors on the Rise Book Reviewer

The characters in DeLeon Demicoli’s book are definitely a rare breed. Seth Barton is an outlaw throwing underground rave parties with the help of his prankster friend Louis. Lick Me – doesn’t mean what it sounds like, it just so happens to be tied into one of the rave parties that featured Louis’ tongue. DeLeon takes us into an underground world where many are never privy to. Norah is introduced into the tale DeLeon weaves and to Seth under what seems like unfavorable circumstances however as the story progresses Norah and Seth join outlaw forces as crusaders, battling those who commit crimes against women.

The book starts slow – the language unique and the style by which DeLeon writes is as outlawed as his characters. After getting used to the ebb and flow of things and pushing on I found this book to be a very exciting adventure. He starts to really blow the characters up and bring them to life; the story evades its slow trickle to a feverish flow down a rapid river gone wild in a storm. You’ll be wondering what’s next, turning the next page and find yourself at the end very glad you didn’t let the slow start hinder your judgment to read onward. - Michael Timlin - Authors on the Rise Book Reviews

BOOK REVIEW FOR SHARK, THE BAKER'S SON BY ANTHONY T. ALIBERTI
BY LEIGH O'DONOVAN

Shark, the Baker's Son: Based on a true story of a mercenary drug informant

A young boy from the streets of the Pittsburgh suburb of Bloomfield becomes hooked on one of the 1980s most destructive excess: narcotics. This is the offbeat tale of Shark’s rise from user, to dealer and finally to informant. His travels take him coast to coast in search of the next high. Will Shark overcome his addictions and finally settle down to a life of sobriety? Only if the cartel doesn’t “hit” him first.
This is the story of Anthony T. Aliberti. His memoir is hard hitting and straightforward. No frills are spared in his tell-all narrative. From his drug-induced adventures to his wild sexual exploits, Aliberti relays his autobiography unapologetically. An exciting read, cover to cover, Aliberti doesn’t fail in bringing excitement and suspense to his debut novel. - 3 STARS

BOOK REVIEW FOR LOVE IN THE TIME OF CHOLERA BY GABRIEL GARCIA MARQUEZ -
BY LEIGH O'DONOVAN

At the age of 20, a solemn Florentino Ariza proclaimed his everlasting love to his sweetheart, Fermina Daza. But, in a moment of pity, Fermina cast away Florentino’s love and married a wealthy doctor. Half a century, 622 affairs and the death of a doctor later, Florentino will once again proclaim his unrequited love for Fermina. His entire life he has prepared for this moment. Will Fermina return the affection that Florentino so desperately needs? Or will she refuse him again as she had done as a 16-year-old girl?

Nobel Prize winner Gabriel Garcia Marquez beautifully narrates the tale of love that has sustained 50 years of turmoil. His use of rich language paints a picture of the Caribbean at the turn of the century. Marquez uses this backdrop expertly to weave the lives of the lovers throughout the pages and years of their lives. This book gives hope to those who believe that true love can overcome all, including death, disease, wealth and social class. A wonderfully written novel by one of the leading Latin American authors- 5 STARS

BOOK REVIEW FOR GREEN RIVER, RUNNING RED BY ANN RULE
BY LEIGH O'DONOVAN

They were found in the summer of 1982 in the Green River bed. Opal Mills, Marcia Chapman and Cynthia Hinds were far too young to die. When Kent Police Department (Washington) investigated the murder scene, they had no idea that they would be the first of many slain young women. It was the beginning of a nearly 20 year ordeal that would end with your average Joe admitting to the 48 grisly murders that occurred near Tacoma and Seattle, Washington.

Anne Rule never fails to produce stellar material in the true crime genre. Writing about her own backyard, Rule interjects herself into the story, which creates a more personal narrative. With her trademark style, Rule writes a novel of cliffhanging chapters that keeps readers at the edge of their seats. Without a doubt, the most intimate offering from Rule since “The Stranger Beside Me.”- 5 STARS

Have you ever known how it feels to be totally alone and afraid for you life? Read Under and Alone, and you will know. William Queen, has done an incredible job of bringing his time as an under cover agent for the ATF to life on these pages.

He gave up three years of being with his family to do the unheard of, becoming a patched in member of the Mongols Motorcycle Club. Then to rise within the club to become an officer. Yet everyday was filled with the fear of being found out and murdered. His bravery and commitment towards the investigation is profound, yet you get the feeling that even though he did his job. He developed a personal relationship with some of the most dangerous people this country has every seen.

This is a must read book if you have ever been in or around the motorcycle life style, whether you are a weekend warrior or a true blue motorcyclist. - 5 Stars

A peacekeeping operation in Kosovo has a new commander and a new mission. Navy Commander John Reese was selected to command this elite unit because of his interest in myths and legends. He is sent to Kosovo because a man has shown up at the base claiming that his children were killed by beasts. An investigation of the area proves to be fatal and the enemy unstoppable. Now Commander Resse has to put together a plan to capture these creatures, once they are captured, under the cover of darkness they are secreted onto a base in the United States. Once they have been studied and tested in military procedures. Commander Reese has a new group of men to command. The men are over a hundred years old and look to be only in their 20's. A special collar is placed on their necks to control them. They are the Team of Darkness.

There is bone chilling horror in Tony Ruggiero's " Team of Darkness". The reader will be entranced by the way the characters come to life on the pages of this book. Ruggiero style of writing will keep you on the edge of your seat, it will make you jump at noises in the night and make you sleep with you light on at night. - 4 Stars