WWII historical fiction winner

Walking Away From Midnight (The Midnight Series Book 1) by Tom Kane delivers a gripping debut in The Midnight Series that seamlessly weaves elements of suspense, history, and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this novel introduces Jessie Fordham, a formidable female protagonist whose journey is as unpredictable as it is compelling.

 

About the book: Walking Away from Midnight

This story pulls you into an intricate web of family secrets and looming conflict. Jessie, freshly graduated from Cambridge, returns to her family's summer retreat in the French Ardennes with a heavy heart and unresolved familial tensions. As war threatens to engulf Europe, Jessie's world is thrown into turmoil when her father thrusts her into a dangerous mission that will shape her fate.

 

Book review: Walking Away from Midnight

The strength of Walking Away From Midnight lies in its rich character development and evocative setting. Jessie's evolution from a conflicted young woman to a courageous emissary navigating the treacherous landscape of wartime Europe is both poignant and empowering. The author skillfully blends historical accuracy with a narrative that brims with suspense, keeping readers on edge as Jessie navigates a world fraught with danger and deception.

The novel's pacing is expertly managed, with each chapter unveiling new layers of intrigue and emotion. Set against a wartime backdrop, Jessie's journey underscores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and human resilience. Vivid descriptions effortlessly transport readers from tranquil midnight lakes to chaotic war scenes where life-and-death decisions about trust and survival must be made.

Walking Away From Midnight excels in its ability to keep readers guessing. The storyline remains unpredictable with red herrings and unexpected twists until the very end, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in Jessie's journey.

In my opinion, Walking Away From Midnight is a historical fiction winner, offering readers an unforgettable protagonist in Jessie Fordham and a narrative that is as heart-wrenching as it is exhilarating. I highly recommend this novel to anyone seeking a compelling blend of World War II history, suspense, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit. Jessie's story stays with you long after you turn the final page. I’m delighted to give Walking Away From Midnight 5 out of 5 stars.

 

Gripping crime thriller from start to finish

If you’re searching for a gripping crime thriller that captivates from start to finish, look no further than SZ Estavillo’s The Serpent’s Bridge. This debut novel is set against the gritty backdrop of Los Angeles and intertwines suspense with a trio of compelling female protagonists who are as flawed as they are courageous.

About the book: The Serpent's Bridge

The Serpent’s Bridge shines with its portrayal of a resilient Hispanic female protagonist at its core. LAPD Detective Anaya Nazario’s unwavering determination and complex backstory make her a standout character in a genre often dominated by male leads. She’s a flawed character haunted by the unresolved murder of her father, a trauma that continues to shape her relentless pursuit of justice. Estavillo skillfully introduces Detective Nazario in an adrenaline-fueled opening scene setting the tone for unfolding high-stake action.

Detective Anaya Nazario

Alongside Detective Nazario, readers are introduced to Millie Ann Goodwin, a pastor’s wife grappling with her own demons, and Esperanza Florez, a pivotal witness whose testimony holds the key to unraveling a string of unsolved murders. Each character is meticulously developed, with their intermingling stories adding emotional engagement and layers of depth and intrigue to the narrative.

Esperanza Florez

Book review: The Serpent's Bridge

Beyond its compelling characters and suspenseful plot twists, The Serpent’s Bridge delves into timely themes such as immigration and mental health, providing a thought-provoking backdrop against which the protagonists navigate their challenges. Estavillo seamlessly weaves these issues into the story’s fabric enriching the reader’s experience with its relevance and depth.

Having read an ARC (Advance Reader Copy), I can confidently say that The Serpent’s Bridge delivers a thrilling ride from start to finish. SZ Estavillo’s ability to blend action-packed scenes with nuanced character development makes this novel a standout in the genre. Whether you’re drawn to intricate mysteries or powerful character-driven narratives, The Serpent’s Bridge is a must-read that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment. I’m happy to give it 5 out of 5 stars.

 **Warning: The Serpent’s Bridge contains a few explicit scenes of sexual content and frequent use of profanity. Reader discretion is advised for those sensitive to such content.

 

About the author: SZ Estavillo

Biracial Thriller Author | Debut 2024-2025 The Serpent Series @HeberBooks | Literary & TV Agency Experience | MA: TV, Radio & Film | Multi-Genre Reader | Social Media & Content Ninja