Amina Thajudeen Book Review, supernatural, Thriller, Young-Adult

Dessa-Secrets of the Inferno: Shadowland Saga 3 by Andreya Lombardi| Review

The sibling fugitives have taken shelter in a small elfin village in Dyonegar to rid themselves of their criminal titles. But even though these primitive people care little about their high-class counterparts and political conflicts, trouble still seems to trail down the Hargann path. While Syreene trains to tame her demon in secret with a skilled elemental inn keeper Hongue, Cabil secludes himself in his own private mission, starting with rescuing Desonna from the dirty hands of Dread, his prior prison warden.

After discovering she kept his only son Renthal a mystery for eight years, Cabil feels compelled to settle a long feud with the princess of Khorgathe and establish his place in his son’s life. Little does his family know, Cabil also holds another agenda.


A wicked trade of flesh for flesh—Cabil needs to decide who is more important in this tragic tale he calls his life. His deal with the devil draws close, the deadline marked red on his calendar. Guilt tosses his alliance, but the good doctor helps him make a necessary, but risky compromise.

In this, he manages to resurrect his undead mother, but at the cost of his friends and family. Trust becomes a sudden issue, centering ex-militant Cabil as the bad guy. And when things turn vile, Syreene is suddenly struck with having to make a terrible decision, one that may cost her her life.

Title: Dessa-Secrets of the Inferno: A Dark Fantasy Thriller Series (Book Three) (Shadowland Saga 3)

Author: Andreya Lombardi

Genre: Dark fantasy

Pages: 248

My review

Dessa: Secrets of the Inferno by Andreya Lombardi is the third instalment of Shadowland Saga. In this book, the journey of Syreene and Cabil from unknown to known continues. I have read the first two books in this series. So I had a fair idea about the story and the storytelling capabilities of the author. After reading this instalment, I must say I admire more her, for bringing this book series to this world.

Andreya picks up the story from where she ended the second book. It was ended in a cliffhanger, so the first chapter was the explanation of that suspense. In this book 3, the author is more focused on unveiling the secrets of Cabil rather than Syreene. She has established the significance of Syreene in the previous one. Now the role is reversed. But their story is not the same. Cabil is gambling the fate of his family and loved ones here.

He was always portrayed as a strong and courageous warrior. But as the author digs deep into his emotions and character, another side of him is slowly unveiled in front of us. Besides the protagonists, I felt that the author also gave much space to the stories of supporting characters too in this one. Because they all have a much bigger role in the life of Syreene and Cabil now.

Book 3 is more focused on the action part of the story which is quite fascinating. They are fast-paced scenes and we can witness the extent of powers of Cabil and Syreene. The flawless narration literally painted every action sequences in front of my eyes vividly. The author deserves full credit for these amazing storytelling skills.

After calming the storm, the author again ended this book at a cliffhanger. But in this time the twist was unpredictable. I have no clue what will be the story of the next book. Because Syreene is all by herself at the end. She has to find a way to complete her mission. What an exciting adventure that will be!

Rating: 5/5

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Erotic fiction, Fantacy, Fiction, supernatural, Thriller, Young-Adult

Dessa: Silence in Bloodlust by Andreya Lombardi | Shadowland Saga 2| Review

After a near-fatal encounter with the killer of her parents, Syreene finds herself mixed in a powerhouse of trouble. With her brother imprisoned, to be scheduled for execution, and a large bounty on her head, Syreene attempts to reclaim her life the only way she knows how—enlisting in the militia.

Disguised, her mission is foolproof, according to her. But the young elf fails to account for the bout of rejection stirring in her bones. Once half-elfin now half demonic—Syreene turns into the very thing she hates most and refuses to make it her weakness. But the lack of control over her newly acquired side makes things all the more complicated and complex.

Now the war-bound elf must shift gears and learn to tame the beast within, save her brother, and seek refuge, all while tackling the intricacies of her taboo love interest. Her true self will be questioned beyond the scope of her understanding, down to the very secrets of her prophetic birth. 

Title: Dessa: Silence in Bloodlust

Author: Andreya Lombardi

Pages: 200

Genre: Dark fantasy/thriller

My review

Dessa: Silence in Bloodlust by Andreya Lombardi is the second instalment of the Shadowland saga. Through the first book of this series, Andreya has created an enchanted world of magic and dark fantasy. We were introduced to Syreene and Cabil and their adventures and existence struggles.
The first book ended in a perfect cliffhanger and I was eagerly waiting to read the next one. This one picks up the story from exactly where it was ended, without any glitch.

Although the main theme of the first book was vengeance for the murder of Syreene’s parents, this part is more focused on the evolution of Syreene’s character. Her family history is under close examination and unexpected revelations is derailing her old motives. The main theme for part 2 is the survival of protagonists. They are trapped in the web of conspiracy and power struggle. But all this is linked to a larger than life prophecy too. The mystery of Syreene’s existence is vastly explored in this one.

Her powers and skills are unexplored. This is controlling her. The more she understands her true self, the less it controls her. Her multilayered character is portrayed very beautifully by the author. Empathy and emotional connections are the two recurring themes in this story. Through them, the author is trying to create depth for the characters. They are essential especially if you are presenting a fantasy series to the readers.

I felt that all main characters are multilayered and the author only scratched its surface. This alone adds some unpredictability to the story. I have absolutely no idea where she is heading with this story. Andreya is mounting suspense through her flawless narration. I’m hopelessly thinking that she may reveal something. But again she draws the curtain at the cliffhanger. Many questions left unanswered!

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fantacy, historical fiction, Science Fiction, supernatural, Thriller

The Prince’s Order (Renaissance Origins, #2) by Taylor Buck | Review

The adventure continues! Read the thrilling follow-up to Amazon bestseller, The Medici Letters: The Secret Origins of the Renaissance. A scientific breakthrough uncovers an ancient time capsule of knowledge. However, what is discovered may change our view on history… and time, forever.

Florence, Italy. Nearly a year ago, Professor Jack Cullen and his wife Kat nearly lost their lives discovering the infamous Medici family treasure. A powerful secret turned out to be the catalyst behind not only the Renaissance—but all of western civilization. The problem was… the secret was locked in a time-release code.

London, England. Present day. A revolutionary decryption program known as TETRA emerges, unlocking the code and revealing a powerful text, feared stolen. Jack’s friend and fellow classicist, Egan Church, pursues the text by following a mysterious note written five hundred years before by Niccolo Machiavelli. Church ends up in Italy, descending deep into the ploys of a shadowy brotherhood known as The Prince’s Order.

Paris, France. On vacation—Jack, Kat and their two daughters, Valerie and Anna, are intercepted by a group of mercenaries on a mission to stop The Prince’s Order from fulfilling a cataclysmic, age-old prophecy. The Cullen family discover the only way to survive is by unraveling an ancient legend and fulfilling a lost search for illumination.

Mediterranean Sea. As Jack pursues his missing friend, and Kat works to reprogram TETRA, the Cullen family find themselves evading capture, deciphering an ancient text, and discovering the shocking secret behind one of history’s most famous, political sages. How you perceive history, time and the lives of the Renaissance Greats will be forever changed.

This saga blends a modern-day thriller with historic accounts of Niccolò Machiavelli in Renaissance Florence in a non-stop, ride with twists, turns and shocking revelations.

Title: The Prince’s Order (Renaissance Origins, #2)

Author: Taylor Buck 

Pages: 211

Genre: Historical fiction

My review

What a spectacular story this was!

Okay, first thing first. I’m a big fan of historical mystery thrillers. I consider them as the perfect blend of entertainment. Historical thrillers are built on the secrets which are carefully hidden behind the scripted history. They open a new world of creativity and imagination. The Prince’s Order by Taylor Buck certainly fit into this line.

Renaissance is one of the most significant turns in the history of mankind. It shaped western civilization and practically crafted the fate of modern man. Taylor Buck’s Renaissance Origins dig deep through the lives of Renaissance greats for missing links and hidden knowledge. In this second instalment of the Renaissance origins series, we are following the life of Niccolo Machiavelli. The Cullen family is in the relentless pursuit of decoding the ancient knowledge to unravel mysteries.

One of the best qualities of this story is its storytelling style and narration. The author carefully builds suspense from the first page itself. The narration is impeccable. I was fully absorbed in the storyline. He created parallel storylines which are intervening frequently. This adds freshness to the storyline.

Every character introduced in the plot has an arc of mystery. Nothing is revealed easily. We only receive bits of information here and there and they all add up to some unpredictable level of truth at the end. Although this is a sequel in a series, it has its own independent existence. The story is crafted in that way.

In short, this is simply a brilliant story. One of the most underrated books ever!

Rating: 5/5

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fantacy, Fiction, Science Fiction, supernatural, Thriller, Young-Adult

Midnight City by J.R. Manga | Review

Charlie James is part of a special agency created by the UN to deal with the demonic threat that has infected the world, using the “fight fire with fire method.” With his training complete and his Spectra status confirmed, he has been sent on his first solo mission. This mission is linked to his traumatic past, and he must find someone dear to him. But his discoveries become more alarming as the investigation goes on, and the truth with what is happening takes a darker turn which may not bring him any peace.

Title: Midnight City

Author: J.R. Manga

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 105

My review

Midnight City by J.R Manga is a perfectly crafted dark fantasy thriller. The story follows a young federal agent Charlie James who is assigned to investigate the increasing missing cases in Seattle. Soon he finds out that his first solo mission is to investigate the missing of a woman named Latoya, with whom he shares a traumatic past from childhood. As the story unfolds, we can witness how these seemingly unrelated incidents leading us to a bigger picture where they all make sense.

The plot is surprisingly fresh, especially for a fantasy genre book. This is not a usual recipe that is flooding in the book market. The author has created a stunning world with a touch of reality. This makes the story captivating and engaging.

The narration and writing style deserves all the praise to carry a good story without losing its charm till the end. We are moving with Charlie as he finds clues one after another. This creates enough suspense to stick with the story.

Undoubtedly, this is one of the best fantasy thrillers I ever read. Highly recommended.

Rating: 5/5

Purchase here: Barnes & Noble

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Comics, Fiction, supernatural, Young-Adult

A Hidden Message (The Forgotten Tales Book 1) by Elijah Shaw| Review

Nasir is about to start his life in college. Coming from a small town, he’s not used to the big city life and at first, it’s a lot to handle. But when he arrives he realizes that he’s in way over his head. With certain forces lurking in the ether, demented figures after him and ancient gods in the fray, Nasir’s world is turned upside down. Anyone who is a fan of Rick Riordan or Neil Gaiman will enjoy this spin on on age-old story. Delve into the world of the Yoruba and learn about African history in a way that you wouldn’t expect.

Title: A Hidden Message (The Forgotten Tales Book 1)

Author: Elijah Shaw

Pages: 85

Genre: Mythology, African history

My review

What a thriller this is!

A Hidden Message by Elijah Shaw is undoubtedly one of the best stories ever crafted in the mythological fiction genre. It is a blend of African mythology, history, culture with contemporary fiction. We can witness how the modern-day scene is quickly transcending into age-old magical African history. The story is crafted in a way to create a perfect connection between these two entirely different worlds. This magical reality is introduced through the life of Nasir Johnson, a freshman from San Diego state university.

He is a guy who survives with his unique charm and wit. At first, his story seems like anything but ordinary. But then a quick surprise hit hard Nasir’s life. He is suddenly manipulated by some strangers to take part in a quest to unravel his destiny. He realizes that he is not what he thought of. This newfound excitement and knowledge led him eventually to assume his role in the age-old war for power and supremacy.

What makes this tale apart from others is its take on African mythology. It is one of the less explored areas in fiction. But this tale proves that it is more exciting than any of its counterparts. The credit surely goes to the author. He carefully crafted a good story out of this conflict around world mythology. I admire his storytelling skills so much because the story never loses its excitement and thrill. The humorous take on every issue enabled a smooth flow of the story.

I really liked the characterization, especially of the protagonist. His quick wit and light-heartedness along with firm determination sets him apart as a character.

Honestly, I think that this story ended too quickly. Because it has much more potential and it ended in this absolute possibility. I’m really looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

Purchase here: Amazon.com Amazon.in

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Science Fiction, supernatural, Thriller

Nightmare Crouton (Nova Socio Book 1) by Todd Hallbauer

The events of September 11, 2001 changed the course of history. When the smoke cleared and the American people realized the scale of the threat facing their country, they demanded action. The government’s answer was to create an organization that could protect Americans from violent actors and prevent future massacres; an organization that is nimble, quiet, and deadly. The Central Intelligence and Defense Force was born. For twenty years, Americans slept soundly knowing that the skilled agents of the CIDF were deployed around the globe.

Suddenly, in the spring of 2023, the charismatic leader of a network of environmental extremists orders his followers to launch a bloody campaign. The series of devastating attacks in Seattle shakes the public’s faith in the CIDF. Following the government’s failures, a private security firm known as Red Star decides to confront the extremists themselves. They recruit Liam Kromer, a decorated soldier and disgraced law enforcement officer, to help hunt down those responsible for the carnage. When Liam goes undercover for his new employer, he learns that the recent attacks were part of a larger plan. His mysterious foes have a bold vision for the future, and they’ve spent decades preparing for war.

Title: Nightmare Crouton (Nova Socio Book 1)

Author: Todd Hallbauer

Pages: 414

My review

A perfectly written thriller

Nightmare Crouton is the first installment of the Nova Socio series. The story revolves around Liam Kromer, a disgraced law enforcement officer. The stage is set for Liam to unwind the mysteries rooted in terrorism. I find the theme of this book quite different. This story is a blend of contemporary political affairs, the threat of terrorism, environmental activism, future technologies, etc. It is so rare to find all these themes in a book.

Liam’s character is explored to a certain extent in this book. But he still has the air of mystery. This interesting characterization paves the way for the next book in this series. The creativity behind crafting a huge and complex story like this is remarkable. The author has connected many dots and subplots to finally solve the mystery. The narration is engaging and captivating. Because we are only introduced to a small portion of a large conspiracy at the beginning. The more we get closer to this mystery, the more it reveals.

The style of writing is good and simple to follow. The author has taken time to craft the characters with depth. One of the striking features of this novel is its gradual ascend into the future. It has a fair share of elements of sci-fi too. This interesting mix is surely a bundle of entertainment.

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fantacy, Fiction, historical fiction, supernatural, Thriller, Young-Adult

TIMESTAMPED: Book One- Postmarked Yesteryear by B. Patrick Bruce | Review

TO PROTECT THE FUTURE, WE MUST FIRST CORRECT THE PAST…

With the passing of her grandmother, and the inheritance of an antique holiday postcard collection, fourteen-year-old Rebecca Renford discovers she is a time corrector. Guided by interdimensional overseers and aided by a handsome, humanized computer historian (called a Continuant), with the selection of each vintage postcard from her album, Rebecca must travel back in time to help rewrite historical wrongs. Battling the omnipotent void and its never-ending roster of evil time disruptors (aka the Clan Gryves), Becca, as she is known by all who love her, is determined to seek vengeance for the deaths of her father and grandmother, Penelope Renford—the most recent time corrector. Smart, feisty and fearless, endowed with magical gifts she has yet to fully comprehend, Becca will stop at nothing until every last member of the Clan Gryves has been banished forever…back into the void, where all evil begins…and all evil belongs!

Title: TIMESTAMPED: Book One- Postmarked Yesteryear 

Author: B. Patrick Bruce

Pages: 294

My review

Timestamped: Book 1 of Postmarked yesteryear is a surprisingly original blend of supernatural and fantasy themes. The plot is fresh and captivating. I can guarantee that this strong female protagonist has the potential to go above and beyond in upcoming books. The plot is twisted to create a parallel world that is acting as a channel in time traveling. But the brilliance of this story lies in, how well the fantasy elements are woven with them.

A new world is created by blending past and present. The ability to travel back and forth in time does not come without responsibility. Becca is gifted and she must fulfill her destiny. She is fearless and determined. But she has to find everything on her own. Even the ability for time correction comes at her without any clue. This creates a sense of mystery and thriller. Becca’s journey is through an unknown path with awaiting dangers that can possibly threaten her life. The only thing that helps her in this journey is her intelligence and attitude.

One of the striking features of this book other than this unique plot is the prologue. A horrible crime is introduced right away on the first page itself. Because of that unusual beginning, I was so eager to connect this incident with the plot. But the author carefully delayed it and that incident is re-introduced only after the time was ripe.

The story is slow-paced at the beginning because the author took the time to introduce the background and characters. But once the main theme is uncovered, it quickly regains its pace. Then the whole story is like an unending maze, opening new doors one after another and giving new dimensions to the story.

Definitely, this is a masterpiece and I’m eagerly waiting to read the next installment in this series.

Rating: 5/5

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fantacy, supernatural

Wild Hearts (Mermaids of Cornwall Book 1): A heartwarming romance set in Cornwall by Amaya Hart|Review

A lonely cottage sits peacefully by a secluded beach. Serenaded by the sea, and the beauty of the surrounding hillside. Home to two sisters – Olivia and Rosie – with mystical abilities.One day, the unconscious body of a man washes up on the beach. Rosie discovers, while tending to him, that there is more to him than meets the eye.The interjection of this stranger in the sisters’ lives leads them down a road latent with discovery. Not only of their shocking identities. But also of love.Olivia took a step forward. A tentative one. Then more steps followed.

“Oly”, Rosie warned, refusing to follow her sister.

The closer Olivia got, the more the unknown form grew into clarity, until she was staring at a young man, faced down in the sand, wet, and naked, with the waves lapping at his feet.He was still. Lost to the clinginess of the sand in which he lay, or any feeling at all, except for that of oblivion.

“Go get some clothing, Rosie.” Olivia called.Rosie was hesitant. She didn’t want to leave her sister behind with a stranger, even though he appeared dead.

“Rosie.” Olivia called again. And she ran off. In no time, she returned with a huge towel, which she flung towards Olivia. Olivia picked it up, spread it open, and draped it over the lower half of the man’s body. Then she turned him over, slowly, covering him up in the process.Olivia then noticed movement, the quiet up-and-down of the man’s chest. It was so faint, she hadn’t noticed it at first. He was alive. Olivia felt the cold flush of relief. And she didn’t know why.Like as if a veil lifted off her eyes, the young man became more prominent, his beauty coming into focus. He had a swimmer’s body, lean, strong toned muscles, long dark lashes, shoulder-length black hair glossy with wetness…Then Olivia saw other things. A trail of red running down his forehead. Cuts, like little lips, all over his arms.

“Everything okay?” Rosie called out.

“Go get the doctor, Rosie.” Olivia replied.

“Is he…”

“Just get the doctor.” Olivia said, cutting her off.

Rosie turned, and sprinted towards the cottage. Soon, a brown truck pulled out the backyard, and took the dirt track leading to the village some miles away.

Title: Wild Hearts (Mermaids of Cornwall Book 1): A heartwarming romance set in Cornwall

Author: Amaya Hart

Pages: 124

My review

Wild Hearts is a perfect blend of mystery and romance. The slowly unwinding mystery builds curiosity from the beginning itself. It has a perfect beginning. The author structured this book without losing the suspense. The characters and plot are introduced right away without any introduction or background narration. Their past is slowly introduced at specific points. The mystery is looming at every corner of their cottage in that secluded beach. Many questions are left unanswered at the end. The mystery is yet to resolve. This way the author sets a plot for the other books in the series.

This story has the potential to go above and beyond our imagination. The characters have the depth to carry the story. What I really liked about the plot is the strength of sisterhood. The bond between Olivia and Rosie is very special. They are not only connected with blood but also through mystery. By introducing a stranger to their peaceful life, the author has disrupted their routines. This will let them to explore the unknown. Their journey to finding themselves only began now.

A must-read for all romance lovers.

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, Fiction, supernatural, Thriller, Young-Adult

The Pyr: Book 1: The Fated Pyr series by Lorena Wood| Review

Shay doesn’t even know what she is when she is thrown helpless to the human world. Finding her power, and her self-control has been so overwhelming she doesn’t plan to survive. Her attack on the powerful leaders of the Fated is just one of many attempts to end it all.

Aiden knows as soon as he sees the beautiful woman drop into the middle of the Sacred Forest. She has to live, and it is up to him to make it happen. The only way to protect the traumatized young Pyr is to use brutal honesty, and all his alpha wolf skills. Stirring up a race war may not be ideal, but it’s the only way to save the woman who will be his mate.

The engaging new fantasy read from Lorena Wood, Paranormal Romance Author. This time, the worlds of shifters, elves, and vampires collide with a new race unknown to most humans. The Pyr are mysterious and powerful, yet only a few remain.

Title: The Pyr: Book 1: The Fated Pyr series

Author: Lorena Wood

Pages: 222

My review

The Pyr Book 1 of The Fated Pyr series by Lorena Wood is a beautifully written paranormal fantasy thriller. Fated are the races who are not purely homo sapiens. They consist of powerful elves, shifters, witches and vampires. Humans are coexisting with fated but with little knowledge about their existence and capabilities. Shay belongs to one of the rare fated species which was believed to be extinct for a long time. She lived all her life among humans trying to blend in, unsuccessfully. Realizing that this effort is vain, she is now trying to end her life. To make it happen she has to wage a war among fated. Aiden, a powerful Alpha shifter was magically drawn into Shay from the very first moment they met. Being an insider, he is well aware of the conspiracies looming inside the elite ruling class. Along with this, he is unable to convince Shay to change her mind. Torn between conspiracies and love, this is his battle for survival and love which in turn determines the fate of all the species.

This is a beautifully woven paranormal romance. The author has blended mythical paranormal beings with the ordinary lives of human beings. They have very similar traits and behaviours. Their hunger for power, domination, greed, love…everything is poured through words. The outcome is not less than a perfect thriller.

We are witnessing most of the story through the eyes of Shay or Aiden. This alone makes a perfect plot for a thriller by building curiosity after each page. Shay has little knowledge about her races and wars, whereas Aiden is fully aware of the hidden agendas and conspiracies. This is an impossible plot for romance. But the author carefully unravelled an unlikely romance in this situation.

All the main characters are portrayed very well throughout the story. The depth of their emotions is unveiled at specific points not only to make it interesting but also to give another dimension to the story. This momentum is carried until the climax.

Overall, this is a must-read for every paranormal lover.

Amina Thajudeen Book Review, supernatural, Thriller

THE TRIALS OF CHAUKHANDI by JASMINE YAMMANI | Review

Honor Killing is a global disease where cultural norms and principles are claimed to be violated by a female relative who dares… And the price… a death sentence. A victim could be hacked, stoned, burned at the stake, or buried alive. Different regions around the world have their choice of how they want to deal with this problem. But the result remains the same.
The Trials of Chaukhandi is a story of a girl who becomes a witness to one such crime.
Meher is not your average free thinker and feminist. She is courageous and independent, but her personality just added a new twist. She now has the power to see visions and can time travel.
A Pakistani born American, who visits her birthplace for a summer vacation, she suddenly finds herself a witness to a crime, testing her peaceful life, and questioning the meaning of life, her ultimate strengths, a sudden introduction into the world of supernatural and her faith.
An intoxicating tale of trials, tribulations and finally retributive justice set amidst the great deserts of Baluchistan province and the historical landmarks of Sind province of Pakistan. “The Trials of Chaukhandi” deals with issues in the blood and bones of many ancient cultural rituals and are still alive and thriving in today’s space age.

Title: THE TRIALS OF CHAUKHANDI

Author: JASMINE YAMMANI

Pages: 120

My review

What I really liked about the story is the liberal approach of the author. The story has a strong protagonist. She is someone who finds her strength in her faith. Faith is a solution to her in times of distress. But she is strong enough to stand for her ideals. The story uncovers the true face of a religious nation. This is an accurate portrayal of how people had supplemented patriarchy with the religion and bent the rules for their selfishness. Honor killings are the measure of deterioration of a society. This topic needs to be addressed. By choosing this subject for a novel, the author has raised her voice against this heinous crime.

The story is written in a very engaging manner. All the scenes are explained with attention to the details. The words captured the essence of the scenes, especially the scenes of kidnapping and murder in the beginning. The descriptions of this cold-hearted crime gave me a chill in the spine. The merciless behaviors of people are portrayed very convincingly. The whole story was following a single incident. The mystery was adding up from the beginning and everything that happened later resolves these mysteries.