Laurie Clayton

• Rated 5 stars

“I have to be honest here. For some reason, when I bought this yesterday, I was expecting to read about more Vampire/Werewolf romance etc. How wrong could I be?

The story that unfolded was so much more than the usual 'Human/Immortal’ romance. Combining aspects of time travel, magic, folk lore, history and the supernatural, Laura Eno takes the reader on a journey from the present back to circa 1500's and the Scottish Highlands.

There is a certain depth and charm to the characters, and an intriguing plot, that compelled me to read from the beginning to the end in one sitting; I haven't done that in quite a while.


In another detour from the normal 'run of the mill' paranormal romance genre, there are some heart rending and highly emotive scenes towards the climax of the book, which may have you reaching for the tissues.

In my opinion, all my favourite aspects of paranormal and historical romance have been delivered it in one neat little bundle. And all without a whiff of 'fang or fur', making for a refreshing change.

I look forward to the next book in this series.”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Thursday, March 21, 2013. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“ Are you growing weary of the same old "Wham! Bam! Fang you Ma'am!" type of Vampire plot lines currently on offer? Looking for a Vampire book with a little more intellectual bite?

Yes?

Then allow me to introduce Celebrity Blood by Nathalie Suteau.

The original French version that was published in 2005 under the title of Les Fauche-Mort, has now been translated in to English by Amy Conley and is available across all platforms.
It pre-dates the Twilight and True Blood series and as a result, sets its own parameters within the modern world of journalism, computer hacking, banking and the movie industry.

The story is told from two points of view. The first is in the form of Julie's journal and the second, from that of Milo (the narrator). Julie is bored with her job in a bank and Milo is an Italian student with a history of computer hacking.
They first meet at the airport, en-route to London. From here, the tale travels the Globe, unfolding into a intricate web of intrigue, conspiracy, manipulation, computer hacking, murder and (strangely enough) evolution, that surrounds Hollywood movie star Stuart Shelby.
It appears to have translated well with the possible exception of the ranks used by the investigating police force. That said, I thought it was well written with three dimensional plots and believable characters.

Celebrity Blood is definitely worth reading.”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Monday, August 13, 2012. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“If you're looking to read something short and sweet with feel good factor and a subtle dose of karma, then look no further than this offering by Talli Roland.

At around 20,000 words, Miracle at the Museum of Broken Hearts is a short Novella, which, I imagine to be the right combination of length and depth to the plot and characters, to make it a light reading experience.

It is an easy read, perfect if you are commuting a short distance, having a coffee break or waiting for an appointment at the GP or Dentist. (It will take your mind off the latter...)

Without giving anything of the plot away, this book has a comfortable ratio of conflict/resolution and the promise of at least one 'happy ending'.

Yes... I would have liked to read more, and did feel that there may have been more to tell. Having read one of her longer novels, I am confident that, had Ms Roland wished to take that route, she would have done so quite capably.

That said Miracle at the Museum of Broken Hearts, was a refreshing sorbet, which cleansed the reading palette. Just what I needed following some of the heavier reading I have done of late.
”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Tuesday, July 17, 2012. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“In this, her debut novel, Kay Dorney has managed to blur the lines between the natural, supernatural and preternatural worlds and phenomenon. She does so in a way that makes a refreshing change from the plethora of books available within this genre.

Set against the backgrounds of an University Campus(for the musically talented), the theatre and a French chateaux, the plot takes the reader on a journey that appears to run the gauntlet between that which we know and understand, that which we believe and cannot explain, that which we see but struggle to accept and all the shades in between.

When an innocent party game of Hypnosis goes wrong, it appears to be the catalyst for a seemingly unrelated string of events.

Just what did happen at the party? What, if anything went wrong, who is responsible?

The Intruder: provides an interesting combination of romance, death, destruction, the occult and a mysterious stranger that arrives from nowhere; no clothes, no identity and apparently, no background history, all we do know, is that he appears to be a highly gifted pianist.

On the slightly negative side, I did find a few issues with formatting, punctuation etc. Whilst these were a little distracting and perhaps slowed the plot down in places, I don’t think they detracted from the complexity, intrigue and enjoyment of the book as a whole.

Once revised, which I believe is currently underway, I’m sure this book will garner higher ratings.
”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Monday, July 16, 2012. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“Joe Murray is the owner of the Lazy Luncheonette in the fictional Yorkshire town of Sanford. A self-confessed grumpy old sod, with pockets deeper than his short arms can reach and a mild case of `duck's arse disease', Joe has developed a reputation as a successful amateur detective.

Together with his closest friends and colleagues, Sheila Riley and Brenda Jump, Joe is also the chairman of The Sanford Third Age Club... where the more mature population of Sanford can enjoy growing old disgracefully.

On the run up to The Sanford Third Age Club's weekend trip to Filey, one of their more colourful members becomes the victim of a hit and run with fatal results. Given the circumstances, the police believe that this is just an unfortunate accident. Joe disagrees. There is something about the event that just doesn't sit right, if only he could put his finger on it.

When the newest member of the merry band, Eddie Dobson also disappears during a fishing trip whilst in Filey, the inevitable police investigation follows. Once again, the police seem intent on this being an unfortunate accident. Initial suggestions indicate that Eddie may have fallen into the sea and been carried away by the currents. Joe and his companions think otherwise. Did Eddie fall as suggested?

David W Robinson has created some wonderfully real characters, situations and relationships that work effortlessly with each other. Joe Murray would give Scrooge a run for his money whilst Brenda and Sheila have their own endearing qualities that make them the perfect Roses to his Thorn. A good mix of references to the 70's music scene will strike a nostalgic note with many forty-something's and as usual, a good dose of northern humour to give your chuckle muscles a gentle workout.

The plot moves at an easy and realistic pace, with plenty of clues and red herrings to keep you guessing about the outcome. And just what is `The Filey Connection'?

Sorry, I could tell you, but then you would miss an enjoyable, cosy murder mystery, where the main characters endear themselves to you like long lost friends. Now, that really would be a crime.

Enjoy the read.”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Saturday, April 28, 2012. ( reply | permalink )

1 of 1 members found this review helpful.

• Rated 5 stars

“If you like Historical Novels with believable characters, settings, conflicts and a touch of romance, I readily recommend this book.

This is the first book in what promises to be a memorable trilogy.

In Dark Deceit, Cathie Dunn has incorporated all the necessary characters, settings, conflicts and resolutions required to ensure a captivating and easy to read historical novel.



Set amidst the unrest of an a civil war c.1140's, the throne of England is up for grabs. King Stephen has been imprisoned Empress Matilda seeks to be crowned Queen in his place.


Following a battle at Lincoln, Geoffrey de Mortagne, under-sheriff of Gloucester is on route to join the Empress on her route to London to secure the thrown. En-route, he and his men happen upon a knight under ambush. They enter the fray and rescue the stricken knight, but not before the final throw of an axe lands, striking what would become a fatal blow.

Geoffrey and his men are convinced that this was no ordinary ambush. He suspects the attackers to have been mercenaries, but who had ordered the attack and why?

Leaving the gravely injured knight in capable hands, Geoffrey sets out with his Sergent Guy to carry the news to the knights Daughter, Alleyne de Bellac, and to fulfil his promise to protect her and his estate until his return.

Expecting a damsel in distress, Geoffrey is captivated by the strength and beauty of the young woman he finds awaiting her fathers return. Alleyne is also captivated by the man who brings news of her fathers attack.


When news of her father's death arrives just days after Geoffrey, Alleyne is faced with an uncertain future. Un-married, she has no protector for her or her estates. Aware that Geoffrey is eager to join with the Empress on her procession to London and convinced that her neighbouring Lord is behind her fathers death, Alleyne sends word to the only man she feels she can trust, Will d’Arques. Alleyne had always considered him to be her fathers closest friend and secretly held thoughts of him becoming the perfect suitor.

Dark Deceit is a captivating read that draws you in the the plot of civil war, murder, confusion, intrigue and a sprinkling of romance, just for good measure.


An easy and enjoyable read...roll on book #2.”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Thursday, April 26, 2012. ( reply | permalink )

1 of 1 members found this review helpful.

• Rated 5 stars

“This is a tightly written, well-researched psychological crime thriller. From the opening page through to the final scenes, Frances di Plino guides the reader through a labyrinth of twists and turns in both the main plot and multiple sub-plots, all of which may lead to a potential serial murderer who is targeting the local prostitutes.

All the characters are believable with just enough back-story allowed to permeate through the text, to leave the reader wanting to know more.

The lead detective, Paolo Storey obviously has some personal issues that colour his judgement and although the reader is permitted glimpses of these as the plot unfolds, I wasn't prepared for the cruel twist at the end. I found myself wanting some form resolution. Bad Moon Rising does not fall into the category of cosy police drama (aka. Midsomer Murders) it is more true to life. We cannot always have the happy ever after result we would like.

I think it leaves plenty of juice in the tank for a second book. Should there be one on the way, I wouldn't hesitate to buy it.

I sincerely hope that Francis di Plino is holding on tight, because I have a feeling that Bad Moon Rising is about to send her Supernova. ”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Monday, April 23, 2012. ( reply | view 1 replies | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“This is my own collection of poetry, currently available in paperback via lulu.com and soon to be available across all e-platforms and via amazon.

”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Sunday, April 22, 2012. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“
Warning! Do Not crack any eggs near this book; unless you want them fried...This is seriously hot stuff.

This book has great characters, kick ass plot lines, humor and plenty of 'Hot 'n' Heavy' along the way.


Deadly Pursuit may be the first of these author's full-length novels, but it is the second in this series. It stands well enough on its own merits, but there would be no harm in reading the previous book, 'Breakout'(A Blood Hunter Novel)just to get a deeper understanding of the other characters and inter-relationship status.


Nina Croft is one of THE main reasons behind my push to join the Kindle revolution. Frustrated by the fact that none of her books were available in hard copy, until now, I bit the bullet and bought the New Kindle in October last year.

I think I can safely say that I have read and purchased each of the e-books currently in her portfolio. As a result, I have watched her go from strength to strength with each one.

Finally, she has managed to straddle both sides of the literary publishing routes, with this, the first of her full-length novels.

Nina Croft effortlessly appears to combine several genres (of which Sci-Fi, Romance and Supernatural are just three that spring to mind) in to one exciting, fast paced and sexy reading experience.”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Friday, April 20, 2012. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“Ever the one to plan ahead, I bought a few of Trevor Forest's books last year for my daughter. (For use as gifts when she can read for herself.)

Despite the fact that she is only two years old, she loves listening to stories, pictures or no pictures and Faylinn Frost is the book I chose to read to her.


As I was reading, it reminded of the Enid Blyton books of my own childhood. Of course, Trevor Forest has brought things up to date by dealing with issues like Global Warming in a child orientated, reader friendly manner, and Faylinn Frost makes a wonderful little heroine. The plot is easy to follow and the characters of the fairy folk and the 'Fairy Catcher' are beautifully crafted.

In fact, I enjoyed the story as it unfolds and the ease with which it can be read aloud. I actually duplicated the whole order so that I could give the books as Christmas presents.”

Laurie Clayton wrote this review Friday, April 20, 2012. ( reply | permalink )