Friday, August 15, 2025

Book Blogger Hop: Little Free Libraries and Book Sharing

Illustration of a book blogger hop taking place on Friday, highlighting various books and a comfortable reading space.

Welcome to the Book Blogger Hop! 


To prepare for next week’s post, check out the upcoming prompts. If you'd like to submit a prompt, fill out this form. Join our Facebook group to connect with other book bloggers and get updates. 


Here’s what to do: 
  1. Share your response to this week’s prompt.
  2. In the linky list, enter your name or nickname followed by your blog name and the URL to your post (e.g., Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer). 
  3. Visit others on the list and leave comments. 

Thursday, August 14, 2025

Discover the Enigmatic Allure: The Gothic Charm of "The Unraveling of Julia" by Lisa Scottoline


UNRAVELING OF JULIA 
by Lisa Scottoline 
Grand Central Publishing, 2025 
★★★★★ 

Lately, Julia Pritzker is beginning to think she’s cursed. She’s lost her adoptive parents, then her husband is murdered. When she realizes that her horoscope essentially foretold his death, she begins to spiral. She fears her fate is written in the stars, not held in her own hands.

Then a letter arrives out of the blue, informing her that she has inherited a Tuscan villa and vineyard—but her benefactor is a total stranger named Emilia Rossi. Julia has no information about her biological family, so she wonders if Rossi could be a blood relative. Bewildered, she heads to Tuscany for answers.

There, Julia is horrified to discover that Rossi was a paranoid recluse, who believed herself to be a descendent of Duchess Caterina Sforza, a legendary Renaissance ruler. Stunned by her uncanny resemblance to Rossi, and even to Caterina, Julia is further unnerved when she unearths eerie parallels between them, including an obsession with astrology.

Before long, Julia suspects she’s being followed, and strange things begin to happen. Not even a chance meeting with a handsome Florentine can ease her troubled mind. When events turn deadly, Julia’s harrowing struggle becomes a search for her identity, a race to save her sanity, and ultimately, a question of her very survival.

Dear Readers,

From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the old Gothic romance paperbacks, where a woman in a flowing dress or nightgown is fleeing from a foreboding mansion or castle in the background. These Gothic romances enjoyed their heyday in the 1960s and 1970s but faded into obscurity by the 1980s. Now this brings me to my latest read, The Unraveling of Julia. While it’s not exactly a classic Gothic romance, it does carry some elements of that genre. This novel, written by bestselling author Lisa Scottoline, marks my first reading encounter with her work. I can already hear someone saying, “You’ve never heard of Lisa Scottoline?” To clarify, I’ve indeed seen her books in stores but didn’t feel drawn to the covers, titles, or blurbs—until now.

The Unraveling of Julia is a psychological thriller infused with Gothic vibes, though it’s not a traditional romance. However, there are two love stories woven into the plot—kind of. The cover art invokes that nostalgic Gothic romance feeling, minus the image of a gown-clad woman running from a creepy estate. That title, The Unraveling of Julia, gives off those eerie '70s horror vibes. Honestly, I was hooked even before reading the blurb.

The story centers around Julia Pritzker, who witnesses the murder of her beloved husband during a mugging. Before she can even begin to grieve, she learns she's inherited a fortune, along with a Tuscan villa and a vineyard. Did it come from a relative? Julia has no idea since she is adopted and knows nothing about her birth parents. So, who is this Italian benefactor, Emilia Rossi? Initially, she seems to be a stranger, but perhaps there’s more to the mystery than meets the eye.

Encouraged by her best friend, Courtney, Julia hastily packs her bags and heads to her inherited villa, which she discovers is in a state of disrepair. Emilia Rossi seemed to be quite a reclusive character—a paranoid woman with delusions, at least according to her servants. She believed herself to be a descendant of Duchess Caterina Sforza, from the Renaissance. Oh, I should mention that Julia has a penchant for horoscopes, especially after one eerily predicted her husband’s death. Coincidentally, Emilia had a similar interest in horoscopes. Is this merely a coincidence, or could there be a deeper connection between Julia and Emilia? Perhaps a familial bond?

I’ll pause my plot summary here, as I don’t want to give away any spoilers—and trust me, this book is full of twists and turns. I will say that the story features multiple mysteries that come together brilliantly by the end.

All in all, I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Unraveling of Julia. It was just the right book for me at the moment. It offers a mix of mysteries, horoscopes, a creepy villa, and a touch of the supernatural. While the Gothic elements were not prominent, they were cleverly incorporated just enough to satisfy my taste.

⁓B.J. Burgess

Hey there! Just a little note: I’m an Amazon Associate, which means I earn a small commission when you purchase books through my links. If you enjoy the content on this blog and would like to show your support, consider grabbing a copy of the book here. It really helps me out, and I truly appreciate it! Thank you so much for your support!

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Experience Suspense with 'Knife in the Back'—The Latest from Karen Rose's New Orleans Series


KNIFE IN THE BACK 
New Orleans, #4 
by Karen Rose 
Berkley, 2025 
★★★★✰

Officer Naomi Cranston was framed for stealing cocaine from the evidence locker and coerced—through threats to her young son—into not fighting the charges. After five years in prison, she has tried to put the ordeal behind her, but the crooks who framed her have returned, this time demanding she move drugs along with her flower shop’s deliveries. They threaten her son once again, but this time she’s not capitulating quietly. She hires Broussard Investigations to protect her and her son, to prove her innocence, and to put the real bad guys away. 

As a former cop, Burke Broussard is well aware of the corruption in the New Orleans police department. He had always believed Naomi Cranston to be guilty and isn’t inclined to take her case. Until he sits down to listen to her side of things. Until he sees her tortured innocence written all over her beautiful face…

A relationship born amid an investigation is a fragile thing. Will it survive the danger and the threats? Will it survive the truth?

Dear Readers,

Crime fiction—I often refer to as detective procedurals—has been a staple for ages. Lately, it feels like there’s a growing presence of these titles on the "bestseller" shelves at bookstores. One name that frequently catches my eye is Karen Rose, whose works I've occasionally picked up. Today marks the release of her latest novel, Knife in the Back, the fourth installment in her New Orleans series published by Berkley

This series revolves around individuals in dire situations who seek out the help of Broussard Investigations. In Knife in the Back, we see more of Burke Broussard, the owner of the agency, who takes on a prominent role for the first time. The story follows Naomi Cranston, a former police officer wrongfully convicted of stealing cocaine from an evidence locker. After spending five years in prison, Naomi is released, only to discover that those who framed her are now targeting her son. This predicament leads her to enlist the help of Broussard Investigations. 

Karen Rose's writing is fluid and engaging, and I found myself immersed in the story within just a few pages, largely due to her exceptional storytelling prowess. The characters, each with their quirks and flaws, are richly developed, and the secondary characters also shine. What starts as a straightforward plot quickly unfolds into a web of unpredictable twists and suspenseful turns. 

My only concern lies in the book’s length, which exceeds 500 pages. For my taste, that’s a bit on the lengthy side, especially for a crime thriller or romantic suspense. While the pacing is smooth and kept me turning the pages, I feel that the story could benefit from trimming about fifty pages or so for a tighter narrative. But that's just my perspective. 

Overall, Knife in the Back is a well-crafted, suspense-laden read filled with drama and action. It's the strongest entry in the New Orleans series.

⁓B.J. Burgess



Hey there! Just a little note: I’m an Amazon Associate, which means I earn a small commission when you purchase books through my links. If you enjoy the content on this blog and would like to show your support, consider grabbing a copy of the book here. It really helps me out, and I truly appreciate it! Thank you so much for your support

Sunday, August 10, 2025

Book Finds & Reading Plans: Tackling My Ever-Growing Want-to-Read Pile


Happy Sunday! 


How is everyone doing today? I hope you're all well. It’s been a bit since my last Sunday Post on this blog. Why the gap? Honestly, my Sunday Posts haven’t been drawing many views, and I just needed a little break from blogging. Even so, I’ve kept up with posting reviews here and on my other blog, Gunsmoke & Grit. I’ll still write Sunday Posts occasionally whenever inspiration strikes, but don’t be surprised if I skip a week or two. 

The Reading Agenda

By the time this post goes live, I should have finished The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline, and I plan to have my review ready by Thursday. Next, I’ll read a NetGalley eBook, Knife in the Back by Karen Rose. This one releases on Tuesday, so I’ll aim to have my review up the same day. After that, I’m looking forward to finally reading Michael Connelly’s Nightshade

There are quite a few ARCs on the way, and I’m also waiting to hear back on some others. So, expect to see more fresh content on the blog in the coming weeks. 

Somehow, I've got to tackle my overflowing "want-to-read shelf" (and yes, it’s more than just one shelf). These are books I want to read but don’t intend to keep for my ever-expanding collection. I need to read and donate to make room for the other books piled around my desk. Yes, I’m running out of space. And what do I do? I keep buying more books. It’s an addiction, and while I’m aware of it, I’m not exactly working on it. Well, sort of. I’ve picked up a bunch of used books lately, mostly Westerns for Gunsmoke & Grit, but I can’t hold on to every single book. I need to make some tough choices about what to keep and what to let go. It looks like I might have to squeeze in some reading marathons. 

Book Finds

After admitting my book addiction, here I am sharing my latest thrift store finds with you, which are strictly for future blogging content. I snagged The School Trip by Miranda Smith, Local Woman Missing by Mary Kubica, and A Flicker in the Dark by Stacy Willingham for just ten cents each. For twenty-five cents, I found a hardcover copy of The House in the Pines by Ana Reyes—one I had recently considered buying in paperback. I’m so glad I held off; a shiny quarter beats full price any day. I also picked up a 1973 hardcover, A Treasury of Modern Mysteries, Volume 2, featuring titles like A Kiss Before Dying by Ira Levin and In Cold Blood by Truman Capote. 

I made some return visits to a few antique flea markets; I came away with Home Invasion and Phoenix Rising, both by William W. Johnstone, along with Selected Works of Edgar Allan Poe and The Truth is Out There: The Official Guide to The X-Files, Volume 1 by Brian Lowry. 

Lastly, I discovered Stranger Danger by Maren Stoffels at a Dollar Tree!


B.J. Burgess

Friday, August 8, 2025

Discover the New Live-Action Series 'TESTAMENT' - All Episodes Available for Angel Guild Members


TESTAMENT 
Angel Studios, 2025 
★★★★☆ 

The new live-action series TESTAMENT is now available for streaming on Angel.com and the Angel App, accessible to all Angel Guild members. All eight episodes of the first season are ready for you to watch and enjoy. 

TESTAMENT offers a reimagined take on The Book of Acts set in an alternate modern era. A miraculous resurrection ignites a movement that overturns the status quo, spreading hope amidst turmoil. As the followers risk everything to share the good news, the Temple strives to silence them before the oppressive Imperium regime takes action. However, public miracles, hidden secrets, and divided loyalties compel both sides to grapple with the true price of their choices. This compelling live-action series will challenge you, touch your heart, and prompt you to rethink what it means to truly follow Jesus. 

I’m pressed for time this week, so I'll focus on reviewing the first episode, titled "Something Old," which runs for nearly 48 minutes. The story unfolds in a modern-day dystopian District of Salem, governed by the Roman Imperium, led by Governor Pilate and his Temple Guards, who don striking red armored uniforms reminiscent of the Praetorian Guard in the latest Star Wars films. The episode takes place after the arrest, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. As news of the resurrection spreads among the populace, the apostles James, John, Peter, and others begin to proclaim this miraculous event. In response, the Roman Imperium dismisses it as a mere rumor and sets out to dissuade the public from believing.

The production budget seems to be on the lower side, evident in the numerous outdoor shots featuring large crowds of extras. The main cast consists of relatively unknown actors; the performances ranged from decent to merely tolerable, lacking any standout talent. The opening credits, clearly influenced by Game of Thrones, carry an oddly supernatural tone. While the theme score is intriguing, it also feels akin to something from Game of Thrones.

Overall, I found TESTAMENT's first episode to be quite engaging; it packs in a lot of world-building and character development in just under fifty minutes. The dystopian backdrop might deter some viewers, though I didn’t mind it at all. This series isn’t suitable for younger children; I’d recommend it more for older teenagers and adults. I suggest giving at least the first episode a shot.

Watch TESTAMENT now on Angel.com or download the Angel App on iOS, Android, Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and other major platforms.

Angel Studios offers an ever-expanding lineup of family-friendly, values-driven content on its streaming platform, thanks to the support of over 1 million passionate Angel Guild members. Fueled by purpose and dedicated to sharing stories that inspire and uplift, Angel Studios is truly a community that amplifies light. Ready to be part of something meaningful? Join the Angel Guild here!

Disclosure: Many thanks to Angel Studios for providing a one-month Angel Guild membership for this review. My opinions are 100% my own.



🎉 Exciting news, everyone! 🎉 I’m thrilled to announce that I’m teaming up with Angel Studios. for an amazing giveaway! You could be a lucky winner of a $10 Amazon gift card.

Giveaway Highlights
  • 🌟 Prize: $10 Amazon gift card
  • 🌟 Winners: 1 Winner
  • 🌟 Eligibility: Must be 18 years or older to participate
  • 🌟 Location: USA only!
  • 🌟 Deadline: August 15, 2025

Winner will receive the gift card via email. Don’t miss out on this fantastic chance, brought to you by Angel Studios... Good luck! 🍀


$10 Amazon Gift Card

Book Blogger Hop: How Will You Celebrate National Book Lovers Day?

Illustration of a book blogger hop taking place on Friday, highlighting various books and a comfortable reading space.

Welcome to the Book Blogger Hop! 


To prepare for next week’s post, check out the upcoming prompts. If you'd like to submit a prompt, fill out this form. Join our Facebook group to connect with other book bloggers and get updates. 


Here’s what to do: 
  1. Share your response to this week’s prompt.
  2. In the linky list, enter your name or nickname followed by your blog name and the URL to your post (e.g., Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer). 
  3. Visit others on the list and leave comments. 

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Fast Home Sale Secrets: Creative Strategies

Table of Contents 

  • Introduction 
  • Host Themed Open Houses 
  • Enhance Curb Appeal with Unique Yard Signs 
  • Leverage Social Media and Digital Platforms
  • Offer Buyer Incentives
  • Utilize Virtual and Augmented Reality Tours 
  • Collaborate with Local Businesses 
  • Conclusion 


Introduction 

Selling your home quickly, and for top dollar, often requires far more than simply placing a sign in the front yard or listing your property online. In today’s competitive marketplace, buyers are bombarded with options, and sellers must find innovative methods to set their listings apart. Whether seeking a fast sale or aiming to create a memorable impression in a crowded market, it’s essential to harness creativity and take bold steps that resonate with potential buyers. By thoughtfully combining time-tested marketing strategies with cutting-edge digital trends, you position your home to stand out in even the busiest real estate landscape, enticing prospective buyers to act quickly—and confidently—on your property.

Embracing innovative approaches helps generate buzz around your listing, brings in varied types of buyers, and often leads to faster, more satisfying sales outcomes. Striking visuals, engaging in-person events, and immersive technology are just a few elements that can transform how buyers perceive and experience your home. Employing a multi-pronged strategy tailored to your property and neighborhood ensures it receives maximum exposure and leaves a lasting impression. Below are actionable, creative strategies guaranteed to help your home steal the spotlight—and win over buyers in record time.

Host Themed Open Houses

While traditional open houses have their place, themed events can significantly boost buyer engagement by creating a lasting impression. Think of your open house as an “experience” rather than just a property tour. Hosting a “Wine and Cheese Night” can foster a relaxed, social atmosphere, helping buyers envision entertaining in the space. A holiday-themed event with seasonal décor and treats can evoke feelings of warmth and belonging. Creative concepts like a “Sunday Brunch Preview” let you highlight spaces such as the kitchen, dining area, or patio, showcasing how they function in real life. Beyond simple showings, these events allow potential buyers to picture their lifestyle unfolding within your home. Add special touches like themed refreshments, small keepsakes such as recipe cards, or curated playlists to enhance the ambiance. This thoughtful approach can encourage visitors to linger, spark word-of-mouth buzz, and increase the likelihood that motivated buyers will feel inspired to sell now and make a firm offer on your home.

Enhance Curb Appeal with Unique Yard Signs

First impressions can make or break a sale. The visual presentation of your home starts before prospective buyers even step foot on the property, and a customized yard sign is a powerful way to command attention from the street. Instead of relying on a basic “For Sale” sign, design signage that reflects your home’s character and energy. Eye-catching graphics, bold colors, or a clever catchphrase can intrigue passersby and invite them to learn more. Consider adding dynamic features, such as a QR code directly linking to your digital property listing or a 360-degree virtual tour. This small but innovative touch can lead to immediate engagement, turning a casual walk or drive into a serious inquiry. Curb appeal is about more than landscaping; it’s about the overall message your home conveys at first glance. For creative ideas and additional inspiration on how to increase both your home’s visual allure and its marketability, review HGTV’s Curb Appeal Tips to ensure your property shines both online and offline.

Leverage Social Media and Digital Platforms

Expanding your marketing efforts beyond traditional channels is non-negotiable in today’s digital age. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok offer direct pathways to local and out-of-town buyers, including many who might never see your property otherwise. Post a mix of dynamic content, such as high-quality photos, video walkthroughs, and engaging stories showcasing the property and the surrounding neighborhood. Use live streaming to host virtual open houses, giving remote buyers the excitement of real-time tours. Collaborate with local influencers or real estate content creators—these partnerships can rapidly expand your audience by introducing your listing to new networks. Targeted advertisements, boosted posts, and creative hashtags can attract specific demographics, such as young professionals searching for home office space or families looking for strong school districts. Always include clear calls-to-action, encouraging viewers to book private showings, sign up for alerts, or interact with your posts. The digital landscape allows you to build momentum and excitement, often resulting in more showings and faster offers. For more guidance on maximizing your property’s online presence, check reputable sources like Zillow’s Seller’s Guide.

Offer Buyer Incentives

In a scenario where several homes are comparable in price and features, small but thoughtful incentives can tip the scales decisively in your favor. Even if your home already offers significant appeal, extras such as contributions toward closing costs, including high-end appliances, or a one-year home warranty provide buyers with tangible savings and peace of mind. These offerings lessen the financial burden on buyers, smoothing the path to a completed transaction. Customizing incentives—such as flexible move-in dates, pre-paid HOA fees, or even a gift card to a beloved neighborhood restaurant—can sweeten the deal and set your home apart from others on the market. Incentives are most effective when they’re clearly advertised in your listing and highlighted during all showings or communications. The goal is to make buyers feel as though they’re gaining unique value by choosing your home, whether through convenience, cost savings, or bonus amenities.

Utilize Virtual and Augmented Reality Tours

The evolution of digital tools has transformed the way prospective buyers shop for homes. Virtual tours, 3D scans, and augmented reality (AR) experiences grant buyers an immersive look at your property, allowing them to explore every room and corner from anywhere in the world. This is especially critical for relocating families, out-of-town investors, or even busy locals who want to preview homes before scheduling an in-person visit. Interactive 3D tours let buyers “walk through” at their own pace, while AR features allow them to envision furniture placement, color schemes, or even remodeling ideas using their smartphone or tablet. By showcasing your home through these advanced tools, you not only appeal to tech-savvy buyers but also demonstrate forward-thinking marketing. Listings with robust virtual content often receive more views, better engagement, and quicker offers because buyers feel empowered to make decisions confidently. To maximize reach, integrate these experiences on your main listing pages and social channels.

Collaborate with Local Businesses

Highlighting the advantages of your neighborhood is just as important as showcasing your house itself. Forming partnerships with local businesses can enrich your marketing while enticing potential buyers with the area’s vibrant lifestyle. Work with coffee shops, bakeries, restaurants, or fitness centers to offer exclusive discounts or gift cards to house hunters. Invite a favorite local bakery to provide treats at your open house, or have a florist decorate the entrance with fresh, local arrangements. These collaborations go beyond simple perks: they introduce buyers to the local community and culture, helping them picture their daily routines and special occasions in your neighborhood. Buyers who sense a warm, connected community are often more willing to pay a premium—and move quickly—to secure a property in such a desirable area.

Conclusion

To achieve a timely and profitable home sale, you must be willing to adapt, innovate, and tailor your strategy to match both your property’s strengths and evolving buyer expectations. By investing in standout signage, hosting unforgettable themed events, leveraging the power of social media, offering well-crafted incentives, embracing cutting-edge virtual tools, and engaging with your local business community, you can transform your home’s appeal and visibility. Each of these creative strategies not only enhances your marketing but also helps your property connect with buyers on a deeper, more personal level. Adapt these tactics to your unique situation and audience, and you’ll be well-positioned for a smooth, successful, and rapid sale. Start implementing these fresh ideas now, and watch as your home becomes the must-see listing on every buyer’s shortlist.

Monday, August 4, 2025

'The Black Highway' Review: Simon Toyne's Riveting London Mystery


THE BLACK HIGHIGHWAY 
Laughton Rees, #3 
by Simon Toyne 
Wiliam Morrow, 2025 
★★★½✰

Forensic specialist Laughton Rees is not ashamed of her checkered past—after all, her youthful indiscretions led to the birth of her daughter Gracie, the person she loves most in the world—but when Gracie’s father unexpectedly turns up in their lives again, Laughton is automatically wary.

Shelby Facer is a dangerous man, formerly imprisoned for his involvement in an international drug trafficking ring, and no matter what Laughton once felt for him, she doesn’t want him anywhere near Gracie. But when Shelby claims that he has information about an especially difficult murder case she is working, she can’t turn him down.

A body with no head or hands has recently turned up in the river Thames, and the police are at a loss until Shelby identifies the man. The victim was part of a highly secretive smuggling ring Shelby was involved with during his and Laughton’s youth—which Laughton’s father, former commissioner for the Metropolitan police, was investigating before he died.

Laughton throws herself into her father’s old files to try to trace the connections between past and present, but as she and DCI Tannahill Khan circle closer to the truth, the case becomes dangerously personal. When another body turns up, mutilated just like the first, the victim is no stranger to Laughton. She’ll have to face the darkest parts of her past to find the man behind the murders—before he takes away everything she loves.

A few weeks ago, I received an unexpected copy of The Black Highway in the mail from the publisher. When I say "unexpected," I truly mean it—I hadn’t requested the book and had no idea a copy was on its way to me. Normally, I don't tend to review unsolicited books, but something about The Black Highway caught my eye, prompting me to give it a try. 

It's the third installment in the Laughton Rees series by Simon Toyne, an author I had never heard of before this. I can already hear the comments: "You’ve never read Simon Toyne?" But honestly, this was my first introduction to his work. 

So, what’s the book about? It’s a police procedural thriller with a somewhat familiar plot featuring a female protagonist who follows in her parents' footsteps to join law enforcement. Laughton Rees, the main character in The Black Highway, is a forensic specialist whose late father was a commissioner with the Metropolitan Police. 

The novel's title references the River Thames, where a headless body, missing its hands, is discovered floating near Tower Bridge in London. This victim is linked to another character, Shelby Facer, a former drug trafficker who has served time in prison and ends up crossing paths with Laughton once more—and that's not a spoiler since the book's blurb mentions his connection to Laughton’s daughter, Gracie. For those, like me, jumping into the series for the first time, I found this detail unnecessary in the blurb.
 
As for the plot, it's pretty much what you’d expect; if you’ve read one book in this genre, you’ve seen them all. I felt that The Black Highway didn't offer anything particularly new—just the same general story dressed up with different character names and settings. However, compared to other authors, such as James Patterson, Simon Toyne shines with his distinctive writing style and narrative structure. He manages to avoid the clichés and predictability that often plague thrillers. That said, I wasn't a fan of the short chapters—70+ chapters felt excessive and became a bit annoying. 

Initially, I found it to be a flawed yet intriguing read. The early chapters were engaging and truly page-turning, but somewhere along the way, the pacing faltered, and I began to lose interest in the predictably clichéd plot. Had it not been for Toyne’s vivid descriptions, I might have set the book aside. However, I persevered, and I'm glad I did because the pacing picked up significantly in the second half. 

In conclusion, despite my criticisms, The Black Highway turned out to be a solid thriller. While it has its flaws, it's enjoyable enough that I would recommend it to others.

⁓B.J. Burgess

Hey there! Just a little note: I’m an Amazon Associate, which means I earn a small commission when you purchase books through my links. If you enjoy the content on this blog and would like to show your support, consider grabbing a copy of the book here. It really helps me out, and I truly appreciate it! Thank you so much for your support!

Friday, August 1, 2025

Book Blogger Hop: What Book Are You Currently Reading?

Illustration of a book blogger hop taking place on Friday, highlighting various books and a comfortable reading space.

Welcome to the Book Blogger Hop! 


To prepare for next week’s post, check out the upcoming prompts. If you'd like to submit a prompt, fill out this form. Join our Facebook group to connect with other book bloggers and get updates. 


Here’s what to do: 
  1. Share your response to this week’s prompt.
  2. In the linky list, enter your name or nickname followed by your blog name and the URL to your post (e.g., Billy @ Coffee Addicted Writer). 
  3. Visit others on the list and leave comments. 

Thursday, July 31, 2025

Tom Clancy: 'Line of Demarcation' – Good Read Despite Familiar Plot


TOM CLANCY: 
LINE OF DEMARCATION 
Jack Ryan JR., #13 
by M. P. Woodward 
Putnam, 2025 
★★★★✰ 

It starts with the destruction of a US Coast Guard cutter and the loss of her entire crew. But the USCG Claiborne was on an innocuous mission to open a sea lane between an oil field off the coast of South America and the refineries of southern Louisiana. The destruction of the ship, tragic as it is, won't stop that mission from continuing.

So who would sacrifice twenty-two men and women just to slow down the plan? That's the question plaguing Jack Ryan Jr. He's in Guyana to work a deal to get his company, Hendley Associates, in on the ground floor of this new discovery, but Russia’s Wagner Group and a pack of Venezuelan narco-terrorists have other ideas—and will risk war with the United States to see them through. It's up to Jack to identify the killers before they draw a bead on him, but how can he do that when the line of demarcation between friend and foe is constantly shifting?

Dear Readers,

Is it just me, or is anyone else struggling to keep up with all the new "Tom Clancy" novels? Ever since Tom Clancy passed away, Putnam has been churning out these books at a dizzying pace, authored by a mix of writers—some more adept than others. The latest "Tom Clancy" title is Line of Demarcation, the 13th installment in the Jack Ryan series, or rather, the Jack Ryan spinoff. And what’s the deal with the recent covers? They all seem strikingly similar, and I'm not just talking about the "Tom Clancy" books but also the broader political-military thriller genre. The artwork feels like a rinse-and-repeat scenario, featuring either a plane, helicopter, boat, truck, or some photoshopped vehicle action scene. Honestly, the covers are tedious, generic, and lack creativity. I had a copy of Line of Demarcation for weeks, yet every time I glanced at the cover art, I found myself reluctant to read it. Sure, helicopters are cool, but this one is as bland as they come.

So, what’s the book about? In a nutshell, bad guys are threatening the world, and the good guys—Jack Ryan Jr. and his team—have to swoop in to save the day. Sound familiar? That’s because I feel like I’ve encountered this same plot countless times before… oh, wait, I have! LOL! I read a lot, maybe too much, and that’s why this genre feels increasingly predictable and a bit stale to me.

M.P. Woodward, who previously wrote Shadow State, is back to pen Line of Demarcation. He brings solid credentials, having served for a decade as a U.S. Naval intelligence officer before transitioning to a career in tech and streaming media. However, he lacks the knack for detailed military jargon that Tom Clancy possessed. But let's be real, I am inevitably comparing the writing to Clancy’s level. Clancy was a one-of-a-kind author whose work could never be replicated. My approach is to judge each new book in Clancy’s universe on its own merits.

Surprisingly, Line of Demarcation turned out better than I anticipated; it may not be a five-star read, but it had enough twists that kept me flipping the pages. The writing flowed well, and I was never bored for a moment. There’s a sprinkling of technical jargon—nothing overwhelming—just enough to please the die-hard Tom Clancy fans. Were there errors in the jargon? I’m not the best person to ask. My military knowledge mainly comes from what I read, and I certainly don’t have the time to fact-check everything. I did, however, spot a few geographic mistakes. What happened there? 

Were there some clichéd moments? Absolutely. With thirteen installments in, I expected a few of those to pop up. Luckily, they managed to avoid being campy or cringe-worthy. Was it predictable? Not quite. There were a few plot points that caught me off guard, or at least I didn’t see them coming right away.

Overall, Line of Demarcation was an engaging read. While it might not be perfect, the story had enough substance to keep my interest right up to the end.

⁓B.J. Burgess

Hey there! Just a little note: I’m an Amazon Associate, which means I earn a small commission when you purchase books through my links. If you enjoy the content on this blog and would like to show your support, consider grabbing a copy of the book here. It really helps me out, and I truly appreciate it! Thank you so much for your support!