Steven Netter

Gothictown By Emily Carpenter

Gothictown is a novel that starts off hopeful but quickly turns dark, chilling and sinister.  A thriller that charms and captivates before alarming, unnerving and frightening readers.  A well-constructed story hellbent on freaking you the hell out.  Enthralling stuff by Emily Carpenter. 

Billie Hope seizes what seems like the chance of a lifetime: the opportunity to trade her tiny New York City apartment for a sprawling Victorian home in a quaint Georgia town, all for just $100.  The offer comes with a business grant to open her dream restaurant and the promise of a fresh start for her family in the picturesque community of Juliana.  At first, everything appears idyllic as Billie throws herself into her new life.  But beneath the charm and Southern hospitality, something feels unsettling.  As unease creeps in, Billie begins to question the town’s true nature—and whether escaping Juliana will be as easy as arriving.

Gothictown explores the themes of finding purpose in your life, how judgment can be impaired if you’re in a seemingly desperate situation, navigating relationship difficulties, how far you’ll go for your family, the problems with consolidated power wielded by a few people, and that if a deal seems too good to be true than it probably is.  And the exploration of these ideas is superbly done within the context of a thrilling psychological and horrifying tale that slowly builds in intensity, suspiciousness and body count.  But despite the disturbing and creepy vibes that ooze off the pages and make you scream at Billie to get the hell out of there and run like her life depends on it, you keep racing ahead to find out what will happen next.  Because while the plot is chilling, it’s also fascinating and entertaining as hell.  A story that you can try to put down, but it will then beckon you like a ghostly whisper in your dreams.

One last thing.  The next time you come across one of those news stories about small towns around the world offering insane deals on cheap homes or piles of cash to move there, I promise you’ll view them with a completely different mindset after reading Gothictown.  And if you do decide to take them up on that offer, well, do so at your own peril.

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The Other People By C.B. Everett

Frightening, perplexing, gruesome and engrossing, The Other People will challenge your mind with intricate twists and keep you on edge as you unravel the mystery of both the culprit’s identity and the escape from the old, locked mansion.  A devilishly conceived and skillfully executed blend of Agatha Christie and Dennis Lehane by author C.B. Everett.

Ten people find themselves trapped inside a mansion with no way out and no memory of how they arrived.  They’re told that the only way to secure their freedom is to solve the mystery of a missing young woman within 12 hours.  But this house harbors a killer, and one by one they are picked off in brutal yet intimately personal ways.  And the closer they get to the truth, the more danger they find themselves in.  Why are they here, how were they selected and who wants them dead?  That’s only the beginning of the myriads of questions that pop up within this suspenseful thriller.

This book fucks with your head in a big way.  From the jump you’re tasked with figuring out multiple mysteries without sufficient information while hearing the story from multiple points of view, which further muddies the waters.  Then, as the slow drip of reveals are disclosed, you get some answers and even more questions, making you feel like you’re no closer to the truth than before.  But in reality, you are progressing towards an outcome that will both shock you and feel inevitable at the same time. 

This is anything but a cozy murder mystery.  The Other People is a locked room psychological thriller with horror elements infused throughout that will have you muttering to yourself as the bodies drop and the tension ratchets up.  An entertaining and terrifying read that will keep you riveted from start to finish.

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The Summer Guests By Tess Gerritsen

Suspenseful, unpredictable and dynamic, The Summer Guests is the most fun you can have following retirees as they try to solve crimes in a small Maine town.  Tess Gerritsen has delivered another compelling thriller in this charming and promising series.

During a family summer vacation to Purity, Maine, a teenage girl goes missing and local police chief Jo Thibodeau is short on leads and focused on a few possible suspects.  But the Martini Club, a group of friends all retired from the CIA and led by Maggie Bird, join the investigation to help find the girl and prove the innocence of Maggie’s friend.  Forming an uneasy alliance with law enforcement, the gang of retirees seem to be one step ahead of the police, leveraging their years of intelligence experience and intuition to untangle a web of deceit, coverups and unsolved crimes that go back decades.  And in the process, they just might save the life of a young woman and others who dare to expose dark secrets that some people will do anything to keep buried.

The Summer Guests isn’t an overly emotional book in the traditional sense of bringing readers to tears, but it still does a tremendous job eliciting strong feelings.  Anxiety and dread for the girl who has gone missing.  Despair and angst for the mother who’s desperate for the police to find her daughter alive.  Inspired and in awe of the elderly ex-CIA agents who realize their purpose and what keeps them feeling young is to continue deploying their skills to help those around them.  Disgust and anger at the despicable actions of some characters.  Empathy and optimism for the police chief to solve the case and to find balance in her life.  Disturbed and unsettled by a certain familial relationship.  And ultimately satisfied and triumphant upon the conclusion of the story and one budding romance. 

Just two books into this series and it’s become a must read.  It’s engaging, intriguing, twisting, entertaining and contains characters of an advanced age that you don’t normally see in espionage thrillers/murder mysteries.  It’s simply an enjoyable reading experience.

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Another Try By Gene Koon

Politics, money, violence and deception fill the pages of Another Try, a twisting and turning story about covert ops, hidden agendas and pursuit of the truth.  Gene Koon has crafted a compelling, fast-paced plot that keeps you guessing until the end.

Garris Kelley was a covert CIA operative…until President Cahill exposed him for pulling off a daring assassination of a cartel kingpin.  Now he can’t go anywhere without people asking him for selfies and autographs.  But then he finds himself in the middle of a shooting targeting a US Senator in Portland and he jumps into action.  Taking him to eastern Oregon and the Willamette Valley wine country, Kelley is on the hunt for the shooter while simultaneously helping a FBI agent track down a missing colleague and getting involved with the security team of a wealthy vintner with powerful friends.  Oh, and the cartel has a hit team hunting him down as well.  Using every bit of skill in his arsenal and leveraging his vast experience, Kelley will have to navigate a hornet’s nest of trouble to save the day…and stay alive. 

Another Try contains multiple storylines neatly weaved together to ensure constant forward motion and a dynamic read that never hits a lull.  Between the main investigation, the billionaire winemaker’s obsession with Kelley, a security team that is more than they seem, the President’s involvement, a missing FBI agent and a cartel seeking revenge, there is never a dull moment in the book.  Giving the well-developed and sometimes mysterious characters a clear purpose that fits the narrative perfectly.   And it is all connected, coming to an explosive head that will elicit gasps, fist pumps and the muttering of a few expletives as everything is revealed with a barrage of violent action.

This is an entertaining, suspenseful and intriguing thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat while you traverse the beautiful state of Oregon in pursuit of justice with a protagonist that you will easily cheer for to be successful. 

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You Are Fatally Invited By Ande Pliego

You Are Fatally Invited is a super intense locked room psychological and horror thriller that will keep you puzzled and riveted to the very end.  Like a macabre game of Clue, but with more dead bodies, enhanced methods of killing, and a puppet master hellbent on revenge invisibly pulling the strings.  Suspenseful, intriguing and dark stuff by Ande Pliego.

Several well-known writers are invited to the private island of famously anonymous author J.R. Alastor for a thriller writers’ retreat.  But this isn’t any ordinary retreat.  Alastor has hired a host who will help execute a week of contests, riddles and scary situations intended to rattle and inspire these writers who all have a dark secret from their past.  Meanwhile, this host has a hidden agenda – she wants to murder one of the participants and feels this week of mayhem is the perfect cover.  However, when one of the guests turns up dead and it’s not the person she planned to kill, all bets are off and everyone on the island is in mortal danger.  Can the guests outwit the unknown killer in their midst?  Or will they all die the death they deserve?

Your brain will get twisted up like a pretzel and you’ll feel cold chills down your spine as you follow the deadly action and try to figure out who’s the mastermind behind this sinister retreat.  Every character is both a suspect and a potential victim.  They all have reasons to kill while also harboring secrets that someone could find punishable by death an appropriate course of action.  Which leads to being deeply skeptical of everyone while also trying to find a sliver of goodness that would eliminate them as a killer.  And it’s that dichotomy of fearing the worst but hoping for the best from each individual that propels this story forward.  Forcing you to reconcile the two and pick sides until the truth is finally revealed. 

The result is an engaging and enthralling story that grips you early and doesn’t let go.  Exercising your brain and nerves in equal measure while you watch authors put through hell to see if/how they come out the other side.

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Nemesis By Gregg Hurwitz

Gregg Hurwitz has outdone himself with Nemesis, a pensive and explosive knock-down-drag-out of a thriller that will leave you more drained than one of Orphan X’s high-end bottles of vodka after a tough mission.  It’s an emotional, action-packed, turning point kind of story that will make you think about friendship, morality, and humanity while enjoying merciless violence and brutal battles to the death.

Evan Smoak is pissed off with his friend and armorer Tommy Stojack, feeling that Tommy has crossed a line and sold weapons to some bad people who did bad things with them.  When Evan goes to Tommy’s shop to confront him, he’s ambushed by half a dozen men trying to kill him. They are unsuccessful and now Evan wants to kill Tommy even more than before.  Meanwhile, Tommy has traveled to a rural community to help the son of an old Army buddy whose dying wish was for Tommy to look after his kid.  And the kid is in a ton of trouble, spouting racist ideology and taking part in the murder of innocent people.  Evan tracks Tommy down to this small town, learns about the murders, and determines this group deserves to die along with Tommy.  To add fuel to the already white-hot fire, a group of assassins have been hired to take out Tommy.  It all comes to a head with a violent collision of forces with the only question being who will survive this deadly encounter of extremely capable operators.

There is a ton happening in Nemesis.  The feud between Evan and Tommy takes center stage and is distressing enough to witness good friends on the warpath to kill each other rather than hash things out peacefully.  Then add the continuously worsening, gut wrenching details of the rural racist group that Tommy is trying to advise and possibly hold accountable for their heinous actions, imbecilic views and senseless decisions.  And then throw in Evan’s “niece” Joey’s crisis born out of good intensions and trying to fit in with a group of women at college, only to find she’s played an unwitting part in a spread of hurtful information.  But wait, there’s more.  There’s a group of savagely depraved assassins gleefully taking out their targets and setting their sights on Tommy.  It’s a lot to take in.

But holy schnikes, it is outrageously fantastic and beautifully executed.  Each story line connects with the others and comes together perfectly.  Along the way, you’ll feel the full gamut of emotions and have strong opinions on the actions of every individual and what you believe the consequences should be.  Additionally, Evan starts to show some vulnerability and cracks in the façade of his Orphan X/Nowhere Man persona.  Does it mean he’s becoming more flexible and more human?  Time will tell.  But for now, it’s more than enough to witness him kicking ass, evaluating his actions, searching his feelings and doing what he does best – helping innocents in need and righting the wrongs they have experienced.  Entertaining and intriguing as hell.  A brilliant continuation of this exceptional, must-read series.

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The Oligarch's Daughter By Joseph Finder

A modern-day homage to classic cold war thrillers, The Oligarch’s Daughter is an intriguing, pulse-pounding and exhilarating story that’s all gas no brakes.  Joseph Finder’s latest novel will keep you on your toes and on the edge of your seat as you journey through this tangled web of finance, love, espionage and geopolitics.

Grant Anderson is living a quiet life building and repairing boats in a small New Hampshire town.  But he has a secret.  Grant is really Paul Brightman, a man hiding out from dangerous people looking to find and kill him.  Because 6 years ago, Paul was a hot shot on Wall Street who fell in love with and married the daughter of a Russian oligarch, for whom he went to work and then found himself becoming a spy for US law enforcement and intelligence agencies rather than conduct illegal investment activities.  Unfortunately for him, the Russians don’t take kindly to traitors and have long memories.  Now, with Paul’s location and cover being compromised, he must go on the run once again while trying to unravel a long-standing conspiracy that, if he can solve and expose, could save his life.  If the Russian operatives hot on his trail don’t get to him first. 

Expect to be in a constant state of tension and anxiety as you jump back and forth from the present to the events of 6 years ago.  Finder barely ever lets you take a breather, moving from one perilous moment to another, wondering if each one will spell disaster and finally result in Paul’s death or maybe he will continue to narrowly escape by the skin of his teeth.  It’s this contrast of terror and hope that propels this novel forward at a blistering pace, compelling you to rush to the end in search for the truth.  

Another well-crafted and wonderfully executed thriller by Joseph Finder, The Oligarch’s Daughter will appeal to those who love a good cold war-esque story, as well as anyone who enjoys an adrenaline-fueled cat and mouse game.  It’s compelling and exciting from start to finish.

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A Killer's Code By Isabella Maldonado

Filled with intrigue, twists and a never-ending sense of urgency, A Killer’s Code keeps you in suspense while you join the frantic pursuit to solve this mystery.  The third installment in the Daniela Vega series is another action-packed adventure that will exercise your brain and accelerate your heart rate.

Hitman Gustavo Toro is dead, but he planned to take others down with him upon his demise.  He left a video to be watched by the FBI in the event of his death, which requires Special Agent Daniela Vega and her team to decode cryptic clues and hunt down the evidence Toro left behind that will expose the malevolent forces directing his actions for years.  But they’re not the only ones searching for this evidence.  The very mastermind behind Toro’s nefarious orders is desperate to get there first and ensure he can continue to operate and maintain his riches and power.  What follows is a deadly race to the finish where everyone’s in danger, secrets are exposed, and lives will be changed forever. 

Dani Vega is undoubtedly the star of the show, her impressive skillset and intellect on full display along with being her unapologetically authentic self.  She is asked to not only crack daunting codes using her impressive brain and prior training, but she’s asked to lead tactical planning and execution in dangerous situations to leverage her prior military service.  Vega is one of the strongest most capable female protagonists in the genre and she kicks major ass on this case. 

Additionally, there are several other aspects of A Killer’s Code that elevate this book to a high level.  First, Vega’s boss Steve Wu delivers a masterclass in leadership and political savviness, navigating a difficult relationship with his direct superior that results in a successful outcome on the case and elevating his career prospects in the FBI.  Second, the development of supporting characters is fantastic.  From Vega’s genius brother Axel to NYPD detective Mark Flint to Vega’s mother and others, each character adds depth and purpose to move the story forward.  And finally, there’s Gustavo Toro.  The arc of this hitman’s story and the possibility of redemption for someone who has done so many despicable things are an incredible feat that can only be pulled off by an exceptional author.  And Isabella Maldonado is absolutely at the top of her game. 

A Killer’s Code is a top notch, fast-paced novel that flies by in the blink of an eye.  Once you pick it up, you’ll find it incredibly difficult to stop.  Another explosive and exciting thriller from the pen of Isabella Maldonado. 

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Tom Clancy Defense Protocol By Andrews & Wilson

Intense, action-packed and politically charged, Tom Clancy Defense Protocol is a high-stakes chess match between world powers on the brink of war.  Andrews and Wilson deliver a smashing hit of a story filled with intrigue, suspense and non-stop tension.

Chinese President Li Jian Jun has ordered a military operation that will secure his legacy – reuniting Taiwan with mainland China.  The plan is audacious, dangerous and Minister of Defense Qin Haiyu believes it to be disastrous for China.  Risking everything, Qin reaches out to the Americans in an effort to protect the country he loves from becoming a global pariah.  While President Jack Ryan works the diplomacy angle and prepares for war with his cabinet, John Clark is tasked with forming an international team similar to Rainbow Six to extract Qin and the American asset hiding him.  Simultaneously, Navy Commander Katie Ryan, the president’s daughter, is deployed to Taiwan to collect intelligence and find a way for the US to thwart the Chinese President’s plans.  Tensions are high and rising, and it’ll take everyone working together – and a little luck – to stop a bloody war from commencing.

Defense Protocol is told from the point of view of various individuals under extreme pressure, providing multiple perspectives that coalesce around a single narrative of attempting to avert a catastrophic war.  Giving the reader insight into the thinking of people at all levels – from the President of the United States and the Chinese Defense Minister at the top end, to US and Chinese Naval ship Captains in the middle of the action, to John Clark and a Chinese CIA asset in the shadows, to Katie Ryan and her team gathering intelligence and figuring out what the other side is going to do.  Every single person plays a vital role in the story and by highlighting each of their voices and actions the narrative is enhanced, making for a propulsive read that’s hard to put down.

Andrews and Wilson have absolutely crushed their first two Jack Ryan books.  Both are modern and exciting while honoring the classic elements of what made Clancy novels so compelling.  Looking forward to seeing what they have up their sleeves for the next one.  No doubt it’ll be another must read.

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The Last King Of California By Jordan Harper

Dark, gritty and filled with relentless tension, The Last King of California is the rare book that violently assaults all five senses.  You don’t just hold the book and read it.  You hear, smell and taste it.  A complete sensory experience you won’t soon forget.  Providing another proof point that Jordan Harper is at the top of his game and one of the best authors in the business.

Luke Crosswhite comes to the realization that he’s not cut out for college and returns home, a place he has complicated feelings about.  It’s the location of The Combine, a gang his father founded and manages from prison through Luke’s uncle on the outside.  Luke tried to run away from The Combine, but as he reengages with the crew, he realizes this is his family and exactly where he needs to be.  When another brutal gang demands they join up or be destroyed, Luke embraces his destiny and leads the fight to save The Combine and the people he cares about.  Resulting in a violent encounter where everything and everyone could be destroyed.  But there’s no stopping the inevitable.  And Luke will fight to the end for his family.  Blood is love. 

This is a book you feel with your entire being.  A barrage of body shots that leave you weak in the knees.  No gimmicks, no major twists, just a straight descent into hell where hope and dreams go to die, and pain is all that’s left.  It’s also a brilliant study in human behavior – how people evolve (or don’t) over time, how their sense of loyalty will drive their decision making even if it might be self-destructive, and how the environment you’re living in can significantly impact and drive your conduct.  It also explores group versus self, asking great questions about the power of the collective versus the will of the individual. 

And yes, there’s tons of violence.  Guns, drugs, explosions, knives, fire, torture and death.  Nothing and no one will be left unscathed.  Leaving you sweaty and completely spent like you’ve just gone 12 rounds with a heavyweight boxer.  Feeling the effects of this literary tour de force for days and weeks afterwards.  Intriguing, contemplative and haunting.  That’s the powerful gift The Last King of California will leave you with. 

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Once Upon A Time In Boomville By Montana Kane

Witty, playful, explosive and absorbing, Once Upon A Time in Boomville combines alluring and provocative affairs of the heart with a deadly serious race against the clock to stop murderous intentions.  Montana Kane’s third book in Brandy Martini series once again brings the heat with her trademark flirtations, suspense and satisfying endings.

A bigtime Hollywood production with the hottest director in the business has picked Boomville as the location for a blockbuster film filled with A-list celebrities and locals as extras.  But a string of escalating mishaps is putting the safety of the cast and crew, not to mention the entire movie, at risk.  Enter local private investigator Brandy Martini, given an ambiguous producer title and the charter to quietly investigate these incidents to find the person or persons responsible so, as they say, the show can go on.  But Brandy herself becomes a target and must navigate movie star eccentricities, Hollywood hopefuls, romantic entanglements and increasingly violent events to catch the saboteur before someone ends up dead.

This book is a hell of a good time.  From an intriguing investigation with more questions than answers to the underlying current of sexuality that permeates the entire story, there isn’t a single dull moment.  Readers are riding shotgun throughout – rubbing elbows (and other body parts) with celebrities, chasing down leads, and trying to stop a catastrophic disaster from occurring on set.  Throw in a town full of quirky locals with Hollywood dreams, an old gumshoe providing support, the “will they/won’t they” between Brandy and Lieutenant Pritzky, and a Malibu hot tub make out session, and Once Upon A Time in Boomville has more than enough action, “ACTION!” and “action” (if you know what I mean – wink wink) to keep readers riveted from start to finish. 

If you haven’t discovered the Brandy Martini series yet, what are you waiting for?  It’s a supremely underrated trilogy (so far) that screams fun, flirty and fascinating.  No time like the present to jump on this train and enjoy the ride.

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