I received a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. What a great story premise. Set in the seedier side of Victorian London, the novel introduces Detective Nathanial Brannick. His wife having died from consumption, he’s given the case of a young Irishwoman who suffered from the same wasting disease that is now ravaging Brannick himself.  To ease the pain, he’s consuming opium – the archetypal flawed detective. There’s more to it. Like a bloody birthmark on his wrist and an eerie…Continue Reading ““Consumed” by Justin Alcala”

Nicole Sallak Anderson’s Song of the King’s Heart, Book One in her “Origin” series. is a highly original novel. Not only does she expertly paint a picture of a long-gone era, she also brings back a period in Egypt’s history that is a lot less well known to readers. The author then layers on another unique experience, ultimately creating a novel abuzz with mysticism fed by sexual energy, a concept I haven’t come across anywhere else. The plot is rife with intrigue, warfare and complex…Continue Reading “Review of Nicole Sallak Anderson’s “Song of a King’s Heart””