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Meet The Author: Jack Binding- Dark Humour, Horror Author #amreading #horror #british

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Jack

It’s the 25th of the month and boy am I glad to spotlight this British author. He is super talented and I loved his book of short stories Pills. You can read my review here. Jack’s style sits well with me personally as a reader, I get him and his work. It’s dark, it’s raw, and not for the faint hearted.  Inspired by the main man Stephen King himself. I could not keep a straight face during this interview it was an absolute pleasure to  meet him. Let’s get to know Mr. Binding’s style… let’s get into it!

Hello nice to meet you! Tell us a bit about you where are you from and other than writing what else do you enjoy?

Hello. My name is Jack and technically, I’m from Slough (where The Office is set). But I moved to Southampton when I was three years old. Okay if I say Southampton? Does that count? I live in Sydney now, though. Maybe I should say I’m from Sydney. I move around a lot. Restless.

Other than writing I enjoy creating music and watching on repeat that scene in Spring Breakers where a gold-toothed James Franco sings Britney.

Kim: Britney? You don’t look like the “type” *eyes Jack closely.*

How did you start writing? What was your inspiration to create?

I’ve always written in one form or another. Lyrics, diaries, death threats. This is just a natural progression. There is no single inspiration to create, it’s just something I have to do. Whether it be music, writing or whatever. I go crazy if I can’t create.

Kim: Hmm know the feeling.

Who is your favourite author, is there anyone out there that inspires you?

Although it’s hard to pin down one author, as I’m answering this question, it’s JG Ballard.

Other than his excellent short stories, I’m a particular fan of the urban dystopia in his later works such as Super Cannes and Cocaine Nights.

What genre do you enjoy reading?

Anything, as long as it’s good. Horror, obviously. And dark fiction like Bret Easton Ellis. Just finished reading his wonderful Lunar Park.

I love science fiction, too. I grew up reading Asimov and have a real fondness for the genre.

Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre? If you could what genre would you like to dabble in?

Although I market myself as a horror writer (pigeonholing is a necessary evil in order to find the right audience), I actually don’t set out to write horror. I always come at writing new stories from the psychological point of view. I write a lot in the first person – I like to be in the character’s head. Sometimes, however, that process isn’t too good for my own sanity.

I have thought about writing erotic romance under a pseudonym as I’m not shy about writing a sex scene, but at the moment it’s nothing more than an idea. (Or is it? Perhaps I have an entire series of erotic novels out there..?)

Kim: *wide eyes* reeeeeeeeeeally? You’re the second male author I’ve interviewed who has entertained writing romance. Go for it, I imagine your style of romance would be … err… hmmm dark maybe?  *Narrows her eyes* wait, wait.. what’s this about erotica and pseudonyms?? If you’ve got an anthology of erotica out there Jack, you better spill the beans! We wanna know… details please.

Was there ever a time you wanted to pick up your laptop, and then launch it out the window with frustration?

Maybe whilst editing the short story Breeders. There was a great, creepy tale in there, but I had a hellish time trying to pull it out. It was a very painful experience. It’s one of the longest stories in Pills. Did I succeed it making it good? Let me know.

Kim: Ya did good kiddo, I loved all of Pills… until the bitter end.

Are you a “plotter” or a fly by the seat of your pants “pantster” as a writer?

I used to meticulously plot, but I find that for me it leads to contrived situations and I often force my characters to do something that doesn’t fit with their personas. So now I have a vague plot, but I let my characters dictate how I get from A to B. It’s more natural that way. If that alters the plot, so be it.

Am I the only one who gets hung up on commas? Do they make you go blah! when you’re writing?

I don’t, know what you mean.

Kim: *shakes head*  me neither I, don’t, have, no, problems with commas :).

Every writer has a word(s) that they always slip up on when they write, then slap their forehead when they notice their typo. For me it’s further and farther exit or exists-  but hey I’m over it now.  Do you have a word (s) that make you go blah! Go away not another damn typo.

No, my spelling is perfect and their is nothing wrong with my grammar.

Kim: *Pouts shrugs shoulders* sure, same hear my speling and grammar, is excellant.  🙂 Who needs an editor?

What three tips would you give any aspiring writer?

If you’re pissed off, channel it to drive your plot or your characters.

Don’t write for your audience, write for yourself. If you don’t like what you’ve written, chances are nobody else will.

Take chances. That murder scene too violent? Fuck it. Leave it in there. Don’t be afraid to offend people.

Kim: * heart pounds, OMG. Did he just say what I’m thinking*…. Ahem, okay, thanks Jack great advice there. 🙂

What are you working on now? What will you release next?

I’m working on a very dark thriller right now which has the nastiest villain I have ever created. It also has a clear protagonist, which is unusual for me, because I tend to steer away from writing good guys. Can’t relate to them. It’s on draft two, although I suspect there will be many more drafts before it’s fit for public consumption.

So… where can we get your books?

Amazon! Everything’s available on Kindle. Here’s the link to my US author page:

https://www.amazon.com/Jack-Binding/e/B01M1YNRMB/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_5?qid=1496988813&sr=8-5

Does a big ego help or hurt writers?

I’m not gonna lie, I have a huge ego. To be able to write something – something that will most likely be very personal – and put it out there for strangers to read (and the inevitably judge) takes guts. There’s a fine line between delusion and confidence, however, so being self-critical is also very important. Luckily for me, everything I’ve written is fucking brilliant and it’s only a matter of time before the awards deals start rolling in and I can dine out on movie rights with my new celebrity mates.

Kim: Erm, I guess the short answer is .. no?

What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?

My writing tends to stem from personal experience, so I don’t need to research much. I only tend to research medical things like how to best dismember the body of a dog with rigarmortis.

Kim: *Avoids eye contact.* Thanks Jack, I think. 

Do you read your book reviews? How do you deal with bad or good ones?

Thankfully most reviews tend to be positive. But bad reviews don’t bother me. I actually like that something I’ve written has elicited an emotion in someone so strong they feel compelled to document it on Amazon or Goodreads or whatever. Bring it on. Haters gonna hate, to quote modern poet, Taylor Swift.

Kim: Haha that’s a sure thing just like tax and death, it will happen. Them haters gonna hate. 

What was your hardest scene to write?

There’s a short story in Pills called Sleeping Pills, and there’s something awful that happens to the narrator near the end. I don’t want to spoil it here, but that was the hardest scene I’ve had to write. It was very personal and upsetting. Had to get drunk in order to finish it.

Kim: Sleeping Pills is a deep story and one of my favourites. 

Do you Google yourself?

I have a Google Alert set up for “Jack Binding”.

Kim: *shakes her head* you’re too much Jack, seriously?

What other authors are you friends with, and how do they help you become a better writer?

I am a solitary beast.

Kim: Ha more like Billy No Mates. 🙂

What would you like readers to know?

Deep down I’m actually an okay guy. Honestly.

Kim: Raises an eyebrow to readers… have you read Pills yet? You  be the judge of that one. Just kidding.

What’s your favourite movie?

It changes every week. Sometimes it’s Candyman – the most underrated horror movie of all time. Sublime story and wonderful gothic Philip Glass score. Sometimes it’s Withnail and I, because that was basically my life for about three years. And sometimes it’s White Chicks, because … well, why not?

What’s your favourite book and why?

England Made Me by Graham Greene. I first finished it on a train between Reading and Basingstoke and burst into tears in the carriage. It has had the same effect on me every time I’ve read it since. Heart breaking. Underrated classic.

Where would you like to travel to and why?

I’m fortunate enough to have travelled extensively, but the one place that sticks in my mind is Lake Garda in Italy. Exquisite scenery, food and people. I will buy an apartment there when I sell the rights for Dot Matrix to Hollywood.

Kim: Dot Matrix is an excellent story!! I could see that in a movie. Great characters.

Tell us about how you develop your characters?

My characters develop themselves. I let them run with it.

Which one of your characters is your favourite and why?

There’s a strange old lady called Mags, who pops in and out of the short stories in Pills. She’s my favourite. Sad old woman who has lived for years and has seen so much she has to resort to some very dark things to get her kicks.

If you could do it all again would you change anything?

I’d have grown a moustache in my early twenties.

Pick one a one time “Bestselling author” or an author with longevity what would you rather?

Either, as long as something I write strikes a chord with people.

And that’s a wrap people, I strongly suggest you grab a copy of Pills, it’s a great introduction to what this author is about, really entertaining. But brace yourself it is over eighteen reading for sure. I’m a fan! Can’t wait for the next anthology to land on Amazon.

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Jack Binding’s Pills splices gritty realism with surreal imagery and otherworldly dread.

From the vicious high fashion horror of FMM (The Devils Wears Prada via Bret Easton Ellis-esque debauchery) to the stark, unsettling heartbreak of Sleeping Pills, Binding takes the reader on a journey through the secret parts of London that few people ever visit.

Influenced by writers such as Stephen King, Martin Amis and JG Ballard, there’s Cronenberg-inspired body horror, creepy kids (and their creepier parents), death, love (often unrequited), seedy massage parlours and late nights fuelled with lust and narcotics.

With overarching themes and characters, the 18 short stories in Pills can be read either as a whole enjoyed as stand-alone tales.

 

Read my review of Pills  here

Connect with Jack here

Author site: https://jackjbinding.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jjbinding

Twitter:     https://twitter.com/jack_binding/

If  you’re an author and you’d like a feature contact me here:

Lovely 4* review! Thank You Reader!! #romance #amreading

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This was my first ever novel I wrote. Thank you reader for your compliments, glad you enjoyed it.

Roberta Franklinon August 12, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition
Kate needs a time-out from her unhappy marriage, so she visits her friend in Marseille; not only does she enjoy the atmosphere of Southern France, but she also meets the archetypal Tall, Dark and Handsome man – and he’s rich, too! They start a whirlwind romance, but then Kate has to go home and face the music: it’s not easy to get a divorce from her alcohol addict husband; and on top of it all, she finds out that she’s pregnant. How is she supposed to tell all that to her lover 600 miles away who is waiting for her?
A lovely modern-day fairy tale, told in an interesting style with different narrators; torn between gloom and doom and a deep and pure love, the heroine makes us feel with her and wish for a happy ending with her Prince Charming. Kim Knight definitely is a new talent on the rise in romantic fiction!

Book Review: Valentines Vision by Tammy Tate 5* #amreading #romance #bookreview @authortammytate

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I’ve read a lot of this author’s work and I always really really enjoy her writing style, and plot lines. In my view she excels at paranormal romance. I read her last novel The Homecoming which is part one of a series. You can read my review here. When it comes to contemporary romance what I love in her work is the drama jeeezz… and steamy sex scenes! Let’s get into the review.

Plot:

You guys know me by now, I hate to giveaway all the spoilers. As a brief outline this is a novella length book. Reader’s follow Tori’s story she was once a super model, before she had an accident that left her unable to work. She has scarring on her face. Her path crosses with Mr. Burns (Mark), enter Mr. Tall Dark and Handsome. He’s rich, witty, demanding, and I kinda liked him a lot for all of this, his personality really shines. So like I was saying… Tori applies for alternative work, as she can’t be a traditional model. She lands a job as his assistant. Mark is now blind, he too had an accent that left his sight reduced.

After some serious push and pull, drama that takes them from the countryside, to another state in the USA, to a Valentine’s Day ball and an old admirer  puts in an appearance, these two likeable characters find a very heart-warming happy ever after. Both professionally and emotionally as a couple.Oh… yeah the hot sex is there too that’s not missing! *grins.*

My Review

I’m giving Valentines Vision  five well deserved stars as firstly I have to tell you, this is a NOVELLA length book. Taking an educated (writer’s) guess looking at page count, I  would say maybe about no more than 20,000-25,000 words.  Within this small word count the author’s writing packs a punch! What I love about Tammy Tate’s style generally is she’s fast paced and engaging with it. The character development is good, you get a sense of who they are as people. I’ve not read a book where I’ve not experienced this. In this short novella she delivers again for me personally as a reader. The story line has some very realistic issues that could crop up for two people in this situation, a blind man and a scarred ex- model with their own insecurities. This is another thing I like about this author’s work, as a romance writer she crafts stories about love that are realistic.

The steamy scenes are always good too. I’d be lying to no one but myself, if I tried to deny, that I breakout in a girly giggle when I read her well crafted scenes. In this novella she delivers again.

Overall this novella is well worth the read,  has a great male lead, packs a punch with the story line and has a lovely HEA every romance lover and reader seeks. Great job five stars.

 

Valentines Vision- Tammy Tate.jpg

 

Blurb:

Valentine’s Day is approaching and Tori signs a five-year modeling contract with a high-end perfume manufacturer. The ink isn’t even dry when she’s thrown through the windshield in a horrific car accident. Despite a deep laceration to her face, the doctors say it’s a miracle she’s alive.
Tell that to a Dallas girl who was on her way to becoming America’s next top model.
With her funds dwindling, Tori scans the classifieds for a job. Preferably, one that doesn’t require a pretty face to sustain a decent wage. One ad stands out among the others. A Personal Assistant to the blind son of an oil tycoon. What more could she ask for?
Tori didn’t expect her new boss to be witty, buff and extremely handsome. Mark didn’t expect to be captivated by his new assistant’s gutsy mindset. When his eyesight is restored, will Tori still be the desirable woman he envisioned? Or, will tragedy strike twice for the ex-model?

Book Review: Seaside Passion by Tammy Tate. Damn Good 5+ stars @authortammytate

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I was thrilled to receive two author review copies of this author’s work this weekend. I read them both in one sitting! First I must say this book is part of an anthology with other authors, I’ve not read the other stories and can’t comment. This review is only based on Seaside Passion. I loved it a great one for romantic suspense lovers out there. Let’s get into the review.

Plot

No spoilers from me! But from what I understand this anthology of four stories follows the story of four brothers, the Mac brothers. Each story is tied in some way. In Seaside Passion the focus is on Blake, the youngest brother. He is a very successful man he owns his own dental practice, but he’s single and has been for four years. He and his brothers learn that their estranged father passed away. He left them his lodge. The brothers work hard and convert it to a holiday resort, once complete Blake’s path crosses with Callie. She is on holiday at the resort for some head space, she would have been with her partner if he had not cheated on her with his secretary. Anyway, after some drama, push and pull the two bond.  During this Callie learns about Blake’s fear of love due to his mother running off with another man, then his dad becoming estranged. The oldest of the brothers raised them all. In between all this there is one massive turn of events that takes this story into the romantic suspense genre… I’m keeping quiet about that! It was a shock to me but a good one.

My Review

I’ve not read all the stories but I’m giving this story (Seaside Passion) of the anthology five plus wonderful stars, Tammy Tate delivers again. This is  a short story you could say less than novella length BUT, the plot line and writing packs a punch in such little word count! Plus the little extra drama she added in (that I’m keeping quiet about) I loved. The characters are well developed, you see Blake’s issues via good writing that shows us in his actions rather than telling us as readers. The author has a way of making her leading men sound really yummy visually. I’d be lying if I said I did not smile at his visual descriptions. *Grins.*

The story itself is a good romance story, filled with a good dose of drama and suspense when things kick off.  There is the HEA that we want as romance readers too. The heat level is a little steamy. I’ve read a lot of this author’s work, my guess is if she had more word count there may have been more steam and description with the character’s closeness *grins.*  She writes steam really well, tastefully always.

Overall, I recommend this particular story to romantic suspense lovers, thrill seekers and all  romance readers who love stories that focus on realistic concepts, issues we face as humans. And also like a fast paced snappy writing style. Great job 5+ stars, I loved it.

 

Seaside Passion Tammy Tate

Blurb

 

Book 4 in the sexy new series, The Mac Brothers.

After a traumatic childhood, Blake MacDonald has trust issues with women and leaves Highland Bay vowing never to return.
With the help of grants, student loans, and odd jobs, Blake puts himself through college. He becomes a well-respected dentist in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. Five years go by and his brother calls with news that their father passed away. They learn that they have inherited an abandoned lodge in Nova Scotia. When he partners with his brothers, renovations begin. Seaside Escape becomes a luxurious oceanfront resort with jagged cliffs, breathtaking views and amazing sunsets. When Blake’s not helping his brother’s run the hotel he’s a part-time dentist in the small seaside town of Highland Bay.
Thirty-two and single, Blake has had his share of women, but he’s never allowed himself to fall in love. He’s not even sure what love means, much less what it feels like. Rejection and abandonment are his worst enemies. It’s a highly-guarded secret he keeps buried.

Book Review: Pills By Jack Binding 5+ stars Wow!!! @jack_binding

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Jesus. Just read it end of review!! This book right here is an experience to read. My only advice is, those who are offended easily, not partial to the odd swear word, a bit of sex, drugs and the like don’t disappoint yourself by picking up this book. Those who are open minded, get British humour and fans of yes STEPHEN KING this book is for you. I’m wasting no time, let’s get into this review.

Plot:

Well, this is an anthology of eighteen short stories. Some characters crop up more than once, and in that way some stories link. The first story is linked to the last story, and in the middle there are some links and random stories too.

My Review

Pills is a very clever anthology, with very clever writing. The way it links and at the same time has some disconnections within the stories is outstanding. Don’t let this put you off, as there is no way you will get lost or think huh?

The author has a certain writing style, one that personally I love as a writer myself, and a reader. He uses first person POV quite a bit, so in that way you are in the shoes of the main characters. The stories are quite raw, gritty, shows how some Londoners think and feel, which I could relate to and very well written. The characters… humpf! Badass  🙂 that’s all I’m saying. There is not a character I did not dig in this book, but the characters are just like the stories gritty, raw but likeable or damn right scary!!

Here are my favourites of the eighteen stories

Property: A great start to the collection, the end will shock you. Loved it. To me this story kind of highlighted the downfall of the rat race of London.

Dot Matrix: This story just needs to be a full blown book I can see it, or even short novella on its own. A gripping story. I hung onto every word. It has a  good thriller feel.

Happy Endings: Ah… not so much a happy ending, but a great story very entertaining from a woman’s perspective. I won’t say why read it.

Bit: I had no idea where this was going to go, it’s a gorgy/ horror one, I really enjoyed the shock ending. This is one that could also be continued.

Twenty Seven: When I read this story I wondered if the author had read a lot of conspiracy theories? It reminded me of some I had read and got engrossed in. A great story. What happens when you make a deal with the Devil himself?

Sleeping Pills: A rather emotionally shocking story. A good one to read, sad ending.

Perfect Anastasia: You know deep down I saw this as a love story with some unfortunate things thrown in. We also meet Mags for the first time, Mags is badass!

Sexting: Clue is in the name… great story! Shock ending.

Dog In A Suitcase: Wowzers, no further comment.

Cremation:  good serial killer story with a very creative twist. I wanted to know more about the lady at the end.

FMM: Wowzers the characters entertained and made me laugh a lot. I could relate the the setting of this story, the fashion world. Really liked it.

Rocking Chair: Super creepy, it made me think next time I hear a floor board creek I’ll wonder if it’s one of these characters. Freaked me out.

Standing Ovation: Mags crops up. The ending of the anthology has the same bang the start did what a way to finish up!

I’m giving Pills 5 + stars for a number of reasons, it’s well written and the flow works with these short stories. Each one has some kind of twist or shock ending, I didn’t read one that didn’t leave an impression on me. Be it scary, creepy, laughing, shock or a mixture of all these emotions.  Believe it or not, some of these stories feature an element of love … gone wrong for whatever creepy reason. As a romance lover and reader it resonated with me. That said these are NOT romance stories, God no far from it. But some feature relationships as the base of the story.

Overall, Pills was a damn good reading experience, I would recommended it to lovers or fans of Stephen King. And no the author has not tried to imitate at all,  you can tell he is himself and very British.  It’s the vibe of his stories that would sit well with King’s fans as well as horror and dark humour fans. I will be reading more of Jack Binding.

This book needs more readers grab a copy! From Amazon

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Just Sayin’….

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I’m so proud of the work I did with Didi, I had to copy and paste this review in full… cos I’m proud just sayin’ 🙂

Thank you!!

The Suspenseful Collection: Volume One 
by Kim Knight (Goodreads Author), Didi Oviatt (Goodreads Author)

61862342

TaeVon‘s review

Jul 29, 2017
really liked it
Read from July 28 to 29, 2017 , read count: 1

I didn’t think a collection of short stories could flow so naturally between two authors, but Didi Oviatt and Kim Knight did just that.

I rated each short story on how much I would like for it to be written as a complete novel. Here’s my tally below that rounded to 4.25/5:

1. It Was The First Time I Killed A Man = 5 Stars (Think this may need more stars)
2. When He Ran His Hands Up My Thighs I… = 3.5 (I couldn’t get with the lovey dovey romance)
3. The Entrance To The Tunnel Is His Only Way Out = 4 (Ending was very unfortunate, but I had to laugh at what happened)
4. Every Time I Hear That Voice From My Basement = 4.5 (I need to know the ending’s outcome)
5. Femme Fatale = 5 (Badass Russian woman as MC; no further comment)
6. The Ones Who Live At The Bottom Of The Ocean, Come To The Surface = 5 (Just needs to continue)
6. Guilty As Charged, In Self-Defence. = 5+ (Let’s just say 7; that story was amazing)
7. It’s A Man’s Man’s World = 5 (Very emotional, easy to tear up even in that short of time)

Sunday Reading… What’s Your Nose Stuck in?? I’m Reading This #amreading @jack_binding

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I have a lot of romance on my to read pile. I’m taking a break from it, so I can go back fresh and excited into my genre. I’m so excited about this British author’s work.  He is inspired by none other than the main man Stephen King himself so this should be good. I’ve got my Author Review Copy and I’m  starting today! Keep an eye out on Meet The Author, I’ve interviewed  Jack Binding  and all I’m saying is… I could not keep a straight face!!  You’ll love him. Have a wonderful Sunday everyone.

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Jack Binding’s Pills splices gritty realism with surreal imagery and otherworldly dread.

From the vicious high fashion horror of FMM (The Devils Wears Prada via Bret Easton Ellis-esque debauchery) to the stark, unsettling heartbreak of Sleeping Pills, Binding takes the reader on a journey through the secret parts of London that few people ever visit.

Influenced by writers such as Stephen King, Martin Amis and JG Ballard, there’s Cronenberg-inspired body horror, creepy kids (and their creepier parents), death, love (often unrequited), seedy massage parlours and late nights fuelled with lust and narcotics.

With overarching themes and characters, the 18 short stories in Pills can be read either as a whole enjoyed as stand-alone tales.

Book Review: Silence Is Golden- Historical Romance 4* By Sara Ackerman @saraackerman #amreading

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This novel  gave me a number of experiences while reading. I laughed, raised my eyebrows and at times toward the end had slightly damp eyes. Overall, it was an enjoyable read. It’s part of a trilogy, I’ve not read the first part, but I was able to get my head around the complex plot in this second part. This book has a lot of concepts waved into the story line, many of which face the modern woman of today, even though it’s set in a historical backdrop of Lords and Ladies in a British setting. Let’s get into the review.

Plot:

This novel is set in the UK, written by an American author. I don’t like too many spoilers so I’ll just outline the plot. Evelyn Westbury is an entitled lady from London, some what spoilt but to me very likeable. She has a fierce headstrong side to her. She has been cursed by a gypsy, she is unable to speak to anyone outside of her family.  She communicates with a notepad and pencil. Her plan is to travel to France, find the gypsy and break the spell. She finds a stash of money her father hid, that’s her meal ticket to set sail to France. She starts her journey via cart from London to the port in Southampton to take the boat to France. In the middle of a war too!

Part of her mission to break the curse is as her engagement has broken off, she feels her lack of speech could have been the reason why, as well as other family drama. She was due to marry a the very rich and entitled Lord Newgate. On her journey in the cart and carriage to Southampton she meets Alfred. T. Combes, enter Mr. Tall Dark and Handsome. She is drawn to him more so than he is to her, as he ignores her. Evelyn is not used to this, men seem to swoon over her. There are a couple of bumps along the way, Alfred decides to be her travel partner and protect her.  A lady travelling on her own in this historical time frame is not acceptable. Evelyn also finds that she is able to speak to Alfred, is the curse real??

Their journey is delayed and the drama starts. There’s a lot of push and pull, build up. Toward the end we learn that Evelyn has got herself into more than she realises, with the money she took from her father. She becomes a wanted woman,  for many reasons I won’t giveaway. Lord Newgate (her ex and our prize prat and villain) turns up and wants to know her again, after he broke off the engagement. He has his “reasons”,  he’s not happy about Alfred minding her these two have a history. Fireworks spark.

Along the line Evelyn is kidnapped, this is where we see our Mr. Tall Dark and Handsome take charge and fight for his lady, which he did amazingly! They find their happy ever after. But not before a few bumps, twists, one loss that sends Evelyn back to her mute former self. She mourns for a few months, Alfred really comes to life as a hero. It was great to see this play out. She cuts off her hair and really experiences a change of character over a major loss. I found this very realistic, I think when a woman chops off her hair ( from a longer length) she is experiencing some major change internally.  I liked this emphasis on her character .Finally the pair make it back to England via boat, a new life starts as a married couple, right at the end her loss has been restored, this leads to part three of the trilogy.

My Review:

I’m giving Silence is Golden 4* stars because like I was saying, this was quite an enjoyable read for me. The characters are likeable, the ones we should like. Lord Newgate is written well enough to show him as an unsavoury villain. I really liked Beatrice, Evelyn’s sister- I loved her to bits. I liked Evelyn too, I watched her grow a lot in character from spoilt to mature lady.  The author did a good job with character development. The outside characters are all really likeable too, some were very entertaining.

The plot of this book is good but very complex, so you will need to pay attention to what’s happening. What I liked about the complex plot is, it takes your average historical romance into a whole new  reading experience of suspense, what will happen next? And realness. Evelyn is faced with some decisions a woman of today could understand. Does she marry and live an entitled life with Lord Newgate, once he shows interest. Or does she settle with genuine happiness, with a man with no land, title, money etc. ? In this time era this question was a massive one for a woman, maybe even one that a woman did not have much choice on. To support herself, back then, would have been unheard of. In this day and age, many women may ask themselves  this still, even though we can now support ourselves. The question is more about long term happiness now a days rather than survival. Shall I date him as his pockets are deep, and he won’t be feeding off me? But he’s a bit shallow?  I liked this element of reality.

Toward the end about a good 75-80% in, is where I really experienced a change of pace in the storytelling.  My heart strings tugged, the hero  (Alfred) made me go “ahhh what a man”,  trust me he really fights for his woman. Later down the line in the story is where I had slightly damp eyes. Evelyn’s major loss is heart-felt, and her reaction is also heart-felt. The author wrote this last section of the book with heart. She gave it some! And delivered. This was the most enjoyable part of the novel for me towards the end. Things started to tie together as well. It’s well written, you get a feel for the time frame. The author also did a real good job as an American portraying old England, good job from a British reader!

This book is just over 300 pages long, and don’t get me wrong was enjoyable to read. The one thing I would have liked is the fast pace, punch, swift movements and heart this author gave around 75% in, I would have loved earlier. This book is a slow-burner (and there is nothing wrong with that), but my reading experience (personally) may have been heightened if the pace picked up sooner.

That said, it was an enjoyable read, and ends in a way to make readers think gosh what will happen in part three?? Great job Sara! Ya got-em hooked! That’s how it’s done, that’s how we do suspense. I like it!

Grab your copy now from Amazon.com  read Sara’s Meet The Author Interview and connect with her here  Author page here.

Shout Out To All Those That Love To Read #amreading #bookbloggers

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I love books

Thank you to all you wonderful book lovers that follow me, without you us authors would be doomed.  I love to read, sometimes my love for reading and writing battle with each other for my time. Today my son is unwell, so I’ll  be on the sofa with him relaxing and reading all day. I’m reading a lovely historical romance by Sara Ackerman.  I hope to finish  it today. I’ve also got some page turning steamy erotica lined up by Ava Sterling to get through, as I nurse my little soldier back to good health.

Right now I’m seeking honest reviews for a few of my books, the blurbs are below.  This is a shout out to all book bloggers, reviewers and anyone who loves to read. If anything takes your fancy to read below, let me know I’ll gift you a free copy and forever be grateful for your honest review. 🙂  You can contact me directly, please tell me 1. what book(s) you’d like to read 2. the  email address to gift it to. Contact Kim

A Stranger in France: Romantic Suspense 

In A Stranger in France readers are taken on a fast paced, modern day romantic journey, that spans across the city of London, the glitz and glam of France, and the beautiful English coast. There’s enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat turning pages.

Career driven and successful thirty two year old Kate Brown travels to southern France to visit her best friend Tanya Adams, for a well deserved short break, and to forget her worries in London. Her path crosses with tall, dark, devilishly handsome and wealthy Nicholas D’Coix. As a young man, Nicholas turned himself around and built an empire of wealth, he’s now one of Paris’ top three entrepreneurs. In a whirlwind of steamy romance Nicholas and Kate fall in love.

Kate returns to London leaving Nicholas behind and the two are still very much in love. Kate faces a few surprises of her own on her return to London. She makes a bold life changing move, to make the most of her life changing dilemma. Touching on real life issues these two strong characters battle it out, against all the odds in the name of love for a beautiful happy ever after.

Havana Heat: Steamy Romance Novella

Havana Heat is book one of the Romance Set in Paradises series of modern,steamy, suspenseful and romantic stories, set in exotic locations around the world. In Havana Heat readers are transported to the paradise of Cuba’s capital Havana, following the romance and heat build between Spaniard Detective Sebastian Garcia, and London born and bred wedding planner Melinda Jones. Melinda’s path crosses with the handsome and charming Detective at Casa De Amour Hotel as a guest at her client’s exotic location wedding. Both characters are in search of a slice of paradise, away from their own troubled love life back home. Once their paths cross the romance and sizzle begins.

When all hell breaks out at Casa De Amour Hotel, and conflict builds over their past both characters are faced with a decision to take a risk and see out their romance, or walk away. Forever asking themselves what could have been. Romance, thrills and excitement await in book one of this modern romance series set in paradise.

Lover’s Retreat: Steamy Romance Novella

Lover’s Retreat is book #2 of the Romance Set in Paradise Series of stand alone modern, steamy, suspenseful and romantic stories. All set in exotic locations around the world.

For thirty seven year old recluse Yasmin O’Neil, life feels like one crisis after another. Her husband left her five years ago, she starts to suspect she’s losing her hearing, and then her mother is diagnosed with cancer. When her mother passes away her fortune changes. Yasmin is fifty thousand pounds richer from her mother’s estate. Yasmin takes her fate into her own hands after years of being a recluse, she rediscovers herself at a spiritual retreat in Sri Lanka south Asia, before she plans to spend the next six months travelling around the world. In Sri Lanka, Yasmin’s path crosses with Michael Thomas, an army soldier on his own path of self discovery. With their luke warm initial encounter the pair don’t hit it off straight away. After some push and pull the two are finally on the same page. Their encounter turns from luke warm to steamy sizzling hot.

In Lover’s Retreat two very different characters originally on different paths, embrace the need for change and companionship. Set in the back drop of paradise, palm trees and untouched nature of Sri Lanka, these two lonely souls gain more than just self discovery they gain a soul mate.

Not Just For Christmas: Contemporary Romance Novella

In Not Just For Christmas readers are taken on a romantic journey set in London, during the festive season following two characters originally opposed to each other fall in love. There’s enough warmth and sensuality to keep readers warm at any time of year.

As Christmas draws near thirty five year old social worker Ava Green, finds herself desperate to not be alone at her favourite time of year. Following the break up of her engagement earlier in the year, Ava has spent ten months on a mission to get over her ex. With the support of her two of her closest girlfriends Tasha and Marie, Ava makes a bold move that surprises her girlfriends in order to find a companion for the festive season. Ava’s path crosses with tall dark and handsome Detective Jerome Samuels, a divorcee in search of love. Once their paths cross after a few bumps along the way there’s no turning back, these two characters are caught up in a whirlwind of sensual and heartwarming romance, that Detective Jerome Samuels hopes is not just for Christmas, he’s on a mission to claim his lady Ava.

The Suspenseful Collection: Anthology of Eight Suspenseful Tales with Didi Oviatt

A suspenseful novel with a twist. Eight short stories, by two suspense authors, from diverse backgrounds. From opposite sides of the Atlantic these stories have been created. One author started the tale and the other ended it. No discussion, no pre-planning, but yet their stories are seamless. With just creativity and the use of writing prompts, to craft one tale, with two different writers. This anthology of suspenseful, fast paced and engaging tales covers multiple genres. From heart felt romance, crime, fantasy, and steamy historical fiction. There is a story for everyone!

Steamy Historical Crime Fiction: It was The First Time I Killed A Man.

It’s 1972 and New York’s first female serial killer Lisa Vanacilli is in the hot seat again, ten years after her conviction of murder to the first degree and innocent plea. The ruthless but sexy reporter Tiffany Low cracks Lisa for a confession… at a price. Lisa is strong, courageous and says it how it is. This story has been extended due to reader’s demand. And is only for adult readers.

Psychological Fiction: Every Time I Hear That Voice From The Basement.

George appears to be harmless. The local neighbourhood geek on the outside, married to Jolene. In reality, he’s a very disturbed man. His path crosses with Dana, the local check out girl. This is a psychological suspense story with a twist.

Crime Fiction: The Entrance To The Tunnel Is His Only Way Out.

Juan is a wanted man, and an ex-gang member on the run from Atlanta to Mexico. With a hundred grand in cash stolen from his ex-boss, he meets an unlikely fate in Mexico. A fast-paced crime fiction story.

Contemporary Romance: When His Hands Run Up My Thighs I…

Love has no time limit, age limit or use by date. Sarah now in her fifties is reunited with her long-lost love Joshua. They last had contact in 1961. In the present day, thanks to the advancement of technology their paths cross. A heart-warming and modern tale, about long distance love, that will leave you warm inside.

Suspense: We Only Said Goodbye With Words, I Died A Hundred Times:

In 1963 Russian Femme Fatale Mila Petrov is London’s top Madam. Her entertainment house is booming, she has a team of London’s strongest women behind her. Unfinished business from her past creeps up and haunts her. It’s nothing she can’t handle. A suspenseful historical tale, with a strong femme fatale.

Fantasy: The Ones Who Live At The Bottom Of The Ocean, Come To The Surface.

A beautiful coming of age story, featuring sixteen year old Zoe and her mother May-Li. Myth becomes reality, as Zoe finds out who and what she really is. Her mixed descent reveals more than what meets the eye. This fantasy story is set against the backdrop of a Greek island and Hong Kong, China.

Suspenseful Crime Fiction: Guilty As Charged, In Self-Defence

California’s sassy, tough, and likeable defence lawyer Catherine has taken on a case so high profile, if she wins she’ll become a partner of Martin Law Firm. Defending forty six year old Mrs. Chevelle. An ex Las Vegas show girl, now a Hollywood wife, on trial for the murder of her high-profile husband. She claims she’s innocent. Readers are taken on a fast -paced journey on a mission to seek the truth.

Contemporary Fiction: It’s A Man’s Man’s World:

A beautiful modern tale showing the love and appreciation of a woman. James Brown said it right when he said, “it’s a man’s man’s world, but it would mean nothing without a woman or a girl.”

More Lovely 4* and 5* Reviews Today! Thank You Readers! #amreading #romance

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I just hopped over to Amazon to copy the blub from Havana Heat, to paste it into something I’m working on.  I smiled when I saw two more lovely reviews. Thank you for your 5* and 4* reviews readers!  I dig you too!! Thank you!

5.0 out of 5 starsthis was the perfect summer short story
ByElizabeth Mattinglyon July 25, 2017
Format: Paperback
Let me say, this was the perfect summer short story. Normally I don’t dig short stories, or novellas. Mostly because I just need more than say, a hundred pages. But this was deftly set up, the characters were fab and the setting was wonderful. The author really puts you there and I dig the islands, so it really was easily to slide into the scenes.
4.0 out of 5 starsEnjoyable Romance
ByVictoria Zumbrumon July 23, 2017
Format: Kindle Edition

I REALLY ENJOYED READING HAVANNA HEAT. I LOVED MELINDA AND SEBASTIAN TOGETHER. THEY HAVE SO MUCH CHEMISTRY AND PASSION BETWEEN THEM. THEY WERE STEAMING UP THE PAGES. MELINDA IS A VERY LIKABLE CHARACTER WHO IS LOOKING FOR LOVE AND HAPPINESS IN THE WRONG PLACES AND SEBASTIAN IS TRYING TO HEAL AND MOVE ON FROM A LOST LOVE. THEY ARE PERFECT FOR ONE ANOTHER.

I REALLY ENJOYED THE STORY AND I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO READING MORE BOOKS BY KIM KNIGHT. IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A REALLY GOOD ROMANCE WITH SOME SUSPENSE, THEN I RECOMMEND YOU READ HAVANNA HEAT.

Just .99p / .99$ on Amazon until the 31st! And There’s a giveaway too. For those that purchase a copy of Havana Heat or Lover’s Retreat, you can enter to win a $25.00 Amazon Gift card. For the Giveaway details  see below.

Click Here.