Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author

• Rated 5 stars

“5/5 Tami Hoag canters into the limelight with her suspense thriller, Dark Horse.

The title itself both refers to the main character, ex-cop Elena Estes, and the main plot that revolves around the exciting and sometimes deadly world of equestrian dressage--a sport of precision, skill and mastery.

Drawing from Hoag’s own skills and training as a competitive equestrian, and occasionally using the names of real people and horses, Hoag manages to propel you into the dark and often deadly world of professional equestrian sports. Step into a world of the ’’ultra rich and the very poor’’, where horses are exploited, misused, abused, drugged and even killed--all for the ’love’ of the sport.

Protagonist Elena Estes is a ’dark horse’, herself. Living in self-imposed exile after a life-shattering decision ruins her career, Elena finds herself drawn to the plight of a young girl, Molly Seabright. Molly’s older sister, Erin, is missing, and the twelve-year-old has come to hire Elena as a private investigator to find Erin and bring her home.

Masquerading as a spoiled socialite, Elena enters the lavish, decadent world of equestrian sport and encounters deception and murder along the way. Filled with rich, powerful men this novel will throw you into Elena’s past and present at a galloping speed...and if you don’t hold on for the ride, you may just be thrown off.

Tami Hoag has consistently and persistently come up with unique storylines, fast-paced plots and intriguing characters. She is one of the most talented female suspense thriller writers there is, and once you read one of her novels, you’ll be begging to read more.

This is perhaps one of my favorites! I found it truly interesting and very unique in plot.

Tami Hoag’s Dark Horse is an intense read...one you won’t WANT to put down!

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.
”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“4/5 Speedwealth

I was introduced to T. Harv Eker and this book almost four years ago when my mother presented my husband and me with tickets to one of Harv’s seminars. Having seen many famous top speakers over the past two decades, I was a bit skeptical at first. I thought that perhaps it would be “the same old same old”. But it wasn’t.

In Speedwealth, Harv touches upon common conceptions and misconceptions of wealth in a way that just makes sense. His practical approach and “no holds barred” attitude are what make his seminars and books so enjoyable. This guy doesn’t pull any punches or give you vague information. He tells it like it is and shows you how to do it. His methods and seminars are like no other.

After attending his Millionaire Mind Intensive seminar and picking up this book, I started on a personal journey to achieve success. My goal was to become a successful published author. My fourth novel (a reprint of my debut) is due out in 2007! I am slowly but surely getting there! Thanks, Harv!

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.

”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“4/5 Sleep No More Will Keep You Awake Far Into the Night

Sleep No More by Greg Isles is a soulful chiller of a thriller. When John Waters, a happily married family man, is approached by a beautiful intriguing stranger who whispers one mysterious word—soon—his life takes an unexpected turn. Suddenly everything he knows as truth and reality spirals out of control as someone from his past reappears. But it is the way that she reappears that will shock you. And it is what she does next that will chill you even further.

This novel is rather difficult to review without giving away the plot or the key mystery, but it is sure to give you goosebumps and you won’t look at those around you the same way ever again. It is a mix of horror and suspense, a bit of fantastical and a ton of thriller, and overall, it’s one novel you won’t want to miss. Greg Isles keeps the tension taut until the bitter end. Kudos!

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.

”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“4/5 Sense of Evil is a psychic Sense-ation!

Kay Hooper's Sense of Evil keeps you in suspense up to the very end. Hooper brings back her special team of psychic investigators, including the mysterious Bishop. In this novel, the main character Agent Isabel Adams leads a team to a small town to catch a serial killer whose victims have three things in common--they’re all beautiful, successful…and blond. And so is Isabel.

Knowing that she could be targeted by a crazed killer, Isabel ‘links up’ with the town Sheriff, Rafe Sullivan. And sparks fly! Literally. While women begin to disappear, Rafe and Isabel fight their obvious attraction while searching for a killer who eludes them, a killer who is much closer than they suspect.

Kay Hooper gives us a volatile mix of romance, danger, murder, fast-paced suspense, and a cast of intriguing yet somewhat complicated characters. As author of another psychic suspense series (the Divine series featuring Agent Jasi McLellan), I was curious to see how another author handles the aspects of psychic investigations. Hooper does this with visionary ease. Kudos to Kay!

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.
”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

1 of 1 members found this review helpful.

• Rated 5 stars

“5/5 A Fiction Writer's BIBLE! Don't write without it!

I've been using Self-Editing for Fiction Writers for the past few years and find it invaluable. I have even recommended it to two writers' groups in Edmonton, Alberta, plus numerous authors.

Although there are some tips/suggestions that I may not agree with (such as using 'said' virtually exclusively), I use each chapter as a checklist when editing my work. I find the chapters on Point of View (POV), dialogue, interior monologue and beats most useful and easy to understand.

Along with explanations and examples, there are short exercises you can do to help improve your writing and editing. I would suggest writers remember some of these suggestions are based on preference while others follow basic writing rules.

If you are a fiction writer--whether short stories or novel--I highly recommend this book by Renni Browne and Dave King. You won't be disappointed!

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.
”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

1 of 1 members found this review helpful.

• Rated 5 stars

“5/5 A Brilliant Book from Someone Who Knows How to Create Wealth!

In 2003, my mother presented my husband and me with tickets to one of T. Harv Eker’s seminars. Having seen many famous top speakers over the past two decades, I was a bit skeptical at first. I thought that perhaps it would be “the same old same old”. But it wasn’t.

After attending the introductory seminar, my husband and I invested in Harv’s MMI or Millionaire Mind Intensive seminar. WOW! Most of what he teaches is in this book. His practical approach and “no holds barred” attitude are what make his seminars and books so enjoyable. This guy doesn’t pull any punches or give you vague information. He tells it like it is and shows you how to do it. His methods and seminars are like no other.

We’ve since attended a few more seminars and have been impressed with each one. Many of our friends and family have read this book, and it has changed many lives. I highly recommend this book and any other by Harv. Secrets of the Millionaire Mind is more a ‘science’ and not some get-rich-scheme. The book is brave, blunt and brilliant. Don’t let the word “millionaire” scare you! There is money to be made…and someone has to make it. Why not you? That’s Harv’s attitude.

After attending some of his seminars and his Enlightened Warrior Camp (A-ho!), I found my passion ignited and then discovered the vehicle to get me there. My goal was to become a successful published author. My fourth novel (a reprint of my debut) is due out in 2007! I am slowly but surely getting there. Thanks, Harv!

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.
”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“5/5 Rise and Shine Shines Brilliantly!

Anna Quindlen's latest novel Rise and Shine is a stunning masterpiece of emotional prose and brilliant insights into her protagonists and their lives. The story of two sisters, who are opposites in almost everything, including social status. This is what drew me to the book. Meghan Fitzmaurice, "the most famous woman on television”, made me think of Oprah, or at least of her impact on society. Although, I can’t see the public’s reaction being quite as harsh if Oprah let out a few irreverent comments about a guest or politician, not knowing her microphone was still on.

When Meghan’s derisive outburst lands her in hot water, her world comes crashing down and she must pay the price for her thoughtless actions. And while I found it and other events kind of comical at first, what happens later is anything but. Her husband dumps her after twenty-one years of marriage and a shamed Meghan goes into hiding, leaving everything and everyone behind.

Meanwhile, her younger sister Bridget, a social worker at a women's shelter, searches for her, with help from her detective ‘better half’, Irving. As the relationship between the sisters is expanded upon, the characters become more frustrating, more poignant, more real. Other characters play their roles, intermingling with the sisters and leading to a story that weaves emotion with realism, and made me think of the movie Crash, where every life is entwined.

Rise and Shine is a story of life, loss and redemption. There are certainly strong messages in Quindlen’s novel--messages of love, family, commitment, perseverance and hope. Fresh, inspiring characters plus crisp dialogue equals first-rate entertainment! I highly recommend this book by the amazingly talented Anna Quindlen. It is the kind of read that goes just fine with a cup of hot chocolate, while curled up in front of a fireplace. With a box of Kleenex nearby.

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.
”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“5/5 Grafton keeps us on the edge of our seats...and slowly falling.

PI Kinsey Millhone is at it again, this time trying to solve the eighteen-year-old murder of a previous ‘cold case’—an unidentified female victim.

Teamed ironically with two elderly cops, the ones who had originally found the woman’s body, Kinsey sets out to discover both the identity of the victim and her killer who dumped the body in an old quarry.

Sue Grafton’s 17th suspense novel in the ‘alphabet series’ is filled with unexpected twists and turns, not to mention infused with Grafton’s wry sense of humor. I loved the quirky relationship between the two old cops, Dolan and Oliphant! Amidst a story of tragic death and horrific murder, they were a great addition and added definite comic relief.

I would have like to see Kinsey’s past delved into a bit more, but Grafton is the Queen of ‘dangling the carrot’. I’ll be sure to read the next one (although I’m a bit behind in my reading as I’m busy writing my own novels). It’s going to be a sad day when Sue Grafton finally gets to the letter ‘Z’.

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.

”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“5/5 WOW! This one kept me up all night!

I’ve been a Tami Hoag fan for years and she has never let me down when I want an enjoyable, fast-paced thrilling read. In Prior Bad Acts she gives you enough twists and turns you’ll feel you’re on a roller coaster without brakes!

I love Tami’s humor and realistic dialogue, and her character development is 4-dimensional. I was ‘in love’ with these characters in Ashes to Ashes, and then Dust to Dust, and am ecstatic that they’re back. Sam Kovac and Nikki Liska are awesome protagonists with sizzling chemistry. Hoag has a winning team!

Prior Bad Acts is one of my favorites and if you’re new to Tami's novels, I highly recommend you pick up a copy, curl up in a chair with the doors locked and settle in for a suspenseful ride. She really knows how to tell a good story! Kudos, Tami!

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“4/5 Johansen Writes Another Killer Thriller!

In No One to Trust, Iris Johansen gives us a gritty, military sniper in the form of a woman who endures sadistic torture at the hands of someone close to her. But Elena Kyler survives, with only one person on her mind--her son, Barry.

After she escapes, she hooks up with Sean Galen, a man of mystery (as most of Johansen's heroes seem to be) and as they flee, they leave behind a trail of vicious murders. And soon Elena must face her past…and destroy it―before it destroys her.

With a cast of intriguing and somewhat complicated characters, Johansen gives us the right mix of romance, danger, murder, and run-for-your-life suspense. This was an easy read, one that will entertain you whether on a sunny beach in Bermuda or in a plane over Toronto.

~ Cheryl Kaye Tardif is a freelance journalist, book reviewer and editor. She is also the author of three mystery novels set in Canada, including the bestselling ‘assisted suicide novel’ Whale Song, which was released April1st, 2007, by provocative publisher Kunati Books.

”

Cheryl Kaye Tardif, bestselling suspense author wrote this review Sunday, June 24 2007. ( reply | permalink )