Anthony Avina Reviews N. Lombardi Jr's Most Recent Thriller

Title: Justice Gone

Author: N. Lombardi Jr

Author Website: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6982373.N_Lombardi_Jr_

Genre: Mystery/Legal Thriller

Publisher: Roundfire Books

Kindle ASIN: B07N175RZJ

Paperback ISBN-13:  978-1785358760

Paperback ISBN-10:  1785358766

Reviewers Rating: 5 stars out of 5 

Click here to purchase book

Reviewed by Anthony Avina originally for his blog

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

An emotionally and politically charged thriller like no other, author N. Lombardi Jr. is set to release one of the most relevant and headline grabbing novels of the year with his upcoming release, Justice Gone. Here is the synopsis.

The Synopsis

When a homeless war veteran is beaten to death by the police, stormy protests ensue, engulfing a small New Jersey town. Soon after, three cops are gunned down. A multi-state manhunt is underway for a cop killer on the loose. And Dr. Tessa Thorpe, a veteran’s counselor, is caught up in the chase. Donald Darfield, an African-American Iraqi war vet, war-time buddy of the beaten man, and one of Tessa’s patients, is holed up in a mountain cabin. Tessa, acting on instinct, sets off to find him, but the swarm of law enforcement officers get there first, leading to Darfield’s dramatic capture. Now, the only people separating him from the lethal needle of state justice are Tessa and ageing blind lawyer, Nathaniel Bodine. Can they untangle the web tightening around Darfield in time, when the press and the justice system are baying for revenge? Justice Gone is the first in a series of psychological thrillers involving Dr Tessa Thorpe, wrapped in the divisive issues of modern American society including police brutality and disenfranchised returning war veterans. N Lombardi Jr. is the author of compelling and heartfelt novel The Plain of Jars.

The Review

My first reaction to this novel was simply…wow. Between the relatable and attention grabbing characters to the heartbreaking and straight from the headlines story and the vivid imagery, this novel truly came to life in ways few novels are ever really able to get to. The issues discussed through the character’s struggles, from homelessness and racism to police brutality and neglecting the needs of those suffering from mental health struggles (most notably in this novel war veterans), made this novel feel not only gripping and engrossing, but important.

The complex issue of right and wrong takes center stage as readers have to not only see the horrible crimes the police are able to commit against citizens, but the tragic cycle of violence that occurs when these issues are left unchecked. I recently saw an interview in which a student remarked that what’s moral and ethical is not always what’s legal, and this novel really brings this sentiment to life. At what point do we start standing up to immoral acts that are protected by technically legal tactics? Do we as a society share any responsibility for crimes committed due to these injustices or the lack of care for those suffering through traumatic mental health struggles? That’s what this novel delves into as the mystery behind the brutal killings of three cops slowly but surely get untangled throughout the book.

The Verdict

This is a must read novel of 2019! Full of edge of your seat twists and turns and a story that touches on the pulse of our current society, this novel excels in every way, delivering a story full of heart and emotion that doesn’t always pair with a good thriller, but in this case it does and then some. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy of Justice Gone by N. Lombardi Jr (or grab your copy if you’re reading this after February 22nd, 2019), today! Rating: 10/10

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author Nick Lombardi Jr. has spent over half his life in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, and he speaks five languages. An event in California in 2011 in which a homeless man was beaten to death lead Nick to write his newest novel, Justice Gone. Nick now lives in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. 

Online: Facebook, Author Website

The 13th Annual National Indie Excellence Awards chose Justice Gone as Best Legal Thriller.

Previous Titles from this author:

Journey Towards a Falling Sun (9781782794943), Roundfire, 2014. 

The Plain of Jars (9781780996707), Roundfire, 2013.

Categories:

FICTION (General)(FIC031030) -> Thrillers (General)(FIC031030) -> Legal(FIC031030)

FICTION (General)(FIC022040) -> Mystery & Detective (General)(FIC022040) -> Women Sleuths(FIC022040)

FICTION (General)(FIC031010) -> Thrillers (General)(FIC031010) -> Crime(FIC031010)

MORE ABOUT THE REVIEWER

Author Anthony Avina’s Blog is a place for authors, readers and everyone in between to enjoy all things books. From blog posts, review, blog tours and author interviews to updates on my latest books and more, everyone can find something to enjoy here. In operation for a couple years now, this site has worked with everyone from indie authors and self-published writers seeking to make a name for themselves to best-selling authors and more. Learn more about him at http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com

MORE ABOUT THIS BLOG The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. Authors, readers, publishers, and reviewers may republish their favorite reviews of books they want to share with others. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read and love. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page and in a tab at the top of this blog's home page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites so it may be used a resource for most anyone in the publishing industry. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Death by Wall Street Audible and Paperback Comparison Review

MORE ABOUT THIS BLOG The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

• Death By Wall Street: Rampage Of The Bulls (Detective Louis Martelli, NYPD, Mystery/Thriller Series) 

  Series: Detective Louis Martelli, NYPD, Mystery/Thriller Series (Book 1)
• Paperback: 240 pages
• ISBN-10: 1452079455
• ISBN-13: 978-1452079455
• 
  

Gary and Carolyn Wilhelm read the paperback and listened to book on Audible, and here is what they thought.

Death by Wall Street: Rampage of the Bulls by Theodore Jerome Cohen
Our rating: 5 of 5 stars

Carolyn's Thoughts -- Originally posted on Amazon
I have listened to the Audible version and also read the book. Both experiences were quite different to me. The audible version was an intense experience as the oral reader had the perfect voice which matched the genre, mystery suspense thriller -- which kept me on the edge of my seat although I had read the book. It would be good to listen when you have some time or want to exercise as it is not relaxing to hear about the stock market and healthcare "cure" corruption. It is fiction based on real events and it seemed more like I was an insider to the plot when listening to the spoken word. I felt more "in" the story through the listening experience.

The book is good when you want to read quietly. I thought this book was going to be a story about financial information of stock market manipulations by big companies, but it also delved into the healthcare industry. If you have ever lost a loved one to cancer or knew someone who needed a promising drug, this is a must-read. Nonfiction events are woven into a narrative to enlighten the reader about how big pharmacy works while newer drugs with proven track records are defeated. Ill people need help and this book is discouraging about Wall Street, Washington DC, and big pharma. A sad story that teaches the information voters should make informed decisions -- if only the "little people" had more power. The author worked to make this information entertaining and exciting while revealing disturbing information and truths. Great read! The author worked to make this information entertaining and exciting while revealing disturbing information and truths.

Gary's Thoughts, 5 Stars
Originally Posted on Amazon Audible
"Important Information for Voters of Our Time"

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I just finished listening to this great Audible version of the book. Listening is a more engaging experience than simply reading quietly. The story information, while entertaining, is also based on nonfiction events surrounding especially the 2008 financial disaster and supposed cancer "cures" being widely promoted. The greedy truth behind this story is alarming. So much corruption went on and goes on.I hope this book helps others prevent or be taken advantage of by money schemes and schemers. Thanks for this truth!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Louis Martelli is a detective with a leg disability and yet is so clever and cunning as to be able to expose the criminals. He out-thinks everyone else and solves cases with finesse. Criminals walk right into the traps he sets.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

The way the surveillance camera was placed was hysterical. The fact cancer drugs are more about greed than healing could make anyone cry.

Any additional comments?

A must read!

Carolyn Wilhelm, Wise Owl Factory 
Gary Wilhelm, The Frugal Engineer

Terminal Identity Suspense Book Reveals a New Reality

MORE ABOUT THIS BLOG The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

• Print Length: 280 pages
• Publication Date: December 1, 2018
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC
• Language: English
• ASIN: B07KDYKNSY

From the publisher:

"Juliette Dreschler awakens to a startling reality. She is only a shell of the woman she used to be after a life-altering accident left her both physically and mentally changed and now someone has marked her for death."

Terminal Identity shares the fictional (based on real life) experience of a family who is dealing with a traumatic brain injury. Not just a TMI, but an international thriller mystery as well. This true explanation is briefly mentioned in the author’s note at the end of the story.

We have a relative who experienced three falls, and with only a mild TBI has fairly significant challenges – organizational issues and distractibility -- which make it difficult for her to be productive. The story was based on fact, although many people have more than the minimal impairment of the character Juliette. The story rang true for me, which I liked.

One character has to split his time between visiting the hospital, working with the Police, and meeting with a private investigator. The family also has to divide their time especially as the story happens in both Switzerland and the USA. The different time zones, distinct hospital rules in two countries, and necessary international travel complicate the story for added suspense. Romance adds to the story.

A stolen identity is revealed near the end of the story, and it not at all what I first would have imagined -- if I had seen it coming. The plot has plenty of surprises as it moves right along. Some suspicious characters that seem guilty are not, It is hard to know which people can be trusted.

One part of the story-within-the-main-story I enjoyed was about the adoption of a baby. I am partial to adoption stories with an adopted daughter myself. A play within the play, so to speak.

One of the main bad guys is a doctor that you will love to hate!

Thank you for reading, 

Carolyn Wilhelm

Wise Owl Factory

Orlando Sentinel Editor's Newest Book Reviewed by Midwest Book Review

Title: "Tate Drawdy"

Author's name: Michael Ludden

Author's website link: http://www.michaelludden.com/    https://michaelludden.net/

Genre: Suspense / thriller

Pages: 294 

ISBN: 978-1-978210-73-8

Name of reviewer: Midwest Book Review 

Reviewer's link: http://www.midwestbookreview.com/sbw/feb_18.htm

Originally reviewed at  Midwest Book Review

Synopsis: Amid the engravings of the evangelists, the stained glass, the marble, the serenity of Savannah's Cathedral of St. John the Baptist are two dead and naked bodies. One of the victims is a priest; the other, a teenage girl. And now John Robert Griffin, a savage killer, wants to help Tate Drawdy solve the crime. That way, there will be more of Drawdy left for him. Drawdy must survive a horrifying clash with the priest's killer in time to face Griffin. But something's wrong. Drawdy's beginning to suspect someone else out there wants him dead. And he's starting to make mistakes.

Critique: It is interesting to note that author Michael Ludden is a former Deputy Managing Editor at the Orlando Sentinel, where he directed an investigation that won a Pulitzer Prize. He's written for magazines, advertising and marketing firms, edited books and been a senior writer/editor at CNN's Headline News. Therefore it's no surprise to find out with his novel "Tate Drawdy" that he has a genuine flair for narrative driven storytelling and is a master of the mystery genre, Exceptionally well written and replete with unexpected twists and turns, "Tate Drawdy" is unreservedly recommended, especially for community library Mystery/Suspense collections. Dedicated mystery buffs should be aware that "Tate Drawdy" is also available for their personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99).

Purchase link: 

https://www.amazon.com/Tate-Drawdy-Michael-Ludden/dp/1978210736/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1519666407&sr=1-1&keywords=tate+drawdy+by+michael+ludden

MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Ludden is a former Deputy Managing Editor at the Orlando Sentinel, where he directed an investigation that won a Pulitzer Prize. He’s written for magazines, advertising and marketing firms, edited books and been a senior writer/editor at CNN’s Headline News.

"Tate Drawdy" is his second novel, following "Alfredo's Luck". He also has a blog, "Tales from the Morgue", where he tells short stories from his days in journalism. https://michaelludden.net/

He lives in Atlanta, where he’s working on another Tate Drawdy thriller. 

MORE ABOUT THIS BLOG

 The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. Of particular interest to readers of this blog is her most recent How to Get Great Book Reviews Frugally and Ethically (http://bit.ly/GreatBkReviews ) that covers 325 jam-packed pages covering everithing from Amazon vine to writing reviews for profit and promotion. Reviewers will have a special interest in the chapter on how to make reviewing pay, either as way to market their own books or as a career path--ethically!

This blog is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Crime Against Humanity Explores Environmental Threats

Title: "Crimes Against Humanity:A1H1W2"
By Joyce A Kovelman, Ph.D., Ph.D.

Publisher: Friesenpress.com - Date of publication: August 7, 2013.
Kindle ASIN: B00TDX7H10  
ISBN: HCover: 978-1-4602-1524-1
SCover:978-14602-1525-8
Kindle and E books: 978-1-4602-1526-5
Genre:  Fiction: Mystery/Thriller,   Who Done It?" Sci-Fi.

Synopsis: A Pandemic begins on Antarctica, rapidly infecting all of Earth's oceans and threatening the existence of planetary life.  The U.S. Military creates a Scientific team whose mission impossible is to identify the pathogen and end the pandemic.  When a violent crime spree starts to spiral out of control, a few courageous individuals decide to take a stand... but will they do so in time? "Crimes Against Humanity:A1H1W2" is filled with stories of love, romance, betrayal and deception.  Above all, it is a cautionary tale beseeching humanity to stop desecrating our planetary home, so all earthly life will prevail."

Addendum:  Recent news both supports and parallels the scientific factors that led me to write this novel.

 Reviewed by Dr. Bernard Starr originally for Amazon

The public is increasingly aware of the environmental threats to our planet and all forms of life on it. Alarming news alerts about the dangers appear almost daily--with some reports even suggesting that we may have crossed points of no return. Despite this there are naysayers who casually dismiss scientific evidence of catastrophic dangers posed by climate change, new strains of viruses, and the possibility of rogue nations accidentally or intentionally launching a global disaster. While many nations are taking actions to address these issues, scientists say that we are doing too little to stem the tide of the potential disasters.

Why the complacency? Perhaps the information is too abstract. Will it take a catastrophic event to awaken the public, politicians and governments? Or is it possible to awaken the public in some other manner?

In reading Joyce Kovelman's novel it occurred to me that her narrative novel format loaded with facts about environmentalism, which are embedded in engaging dialogue, may be more effective than news reports for awakening the public to the dangers we are facing.

Kovelman's novel is set in a oceanography research center in the Antarctic. While these scientists are studying the bottom of the food chain in the ocean they are called upon to investigate an unfolding global disaster in which much of the sea life in the oceans is dying from an unknown source--and the mysterious disease is beginning to spread to humans. Other scientists and experts from various countries arrive at the research station to investigate this emergency that could wipe out life on our planet. It becomes a frantic race against time. As the narrative unfolds the human element is added: Individuals seeking power and recognition as well as governments and corporations placing economic interests over the survival of the planet. What else is new? Hopefully, this book will be widely noted and read. It could shake up the public to the real dangers we are currently facing.

Sometimes the personal stories of the characters slow down the thriller aspect. But you get so involved with the individuals and relationships that you want to know about their fates.

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor.

Herman Cain Reviews Political Thriller

The Little Bureaucrat by P.M. Matthews

Www.thelittlebureaucrat.com

Fiction: political thriller

978-0-9859086-0-7 – Hard Cover

978-0-9859086-1-4 - ePUB

978-0-9859086-2-1 – ePDF

Reviewer: Herman Cain, Businessman and Tea Party Activist, from CainTV

Summary: Although the central theme is about government overreach and abuse and how as citizens we allow this to happen when we empower government through the relinquishment of our freedoms. It is also a tale of friendships, family and lovers and how they deal with both the good and the bad that life delivers to their doorstep. The pages are populated by realistic characters; the types of people all of us have in our lives. A story with broad appeal that bring both a smile and sadness, riddled with suspense and anxious moments, bad guys to loath and enough romance and violence to keep everyone hooked!

Review:

It’s a must read.

“When the government decides who lives and dies, Americans have lost control of Liberty. I strongly urge you to read The Little Bureaucrat by P. M. Matthews. I found it to be a chilling tale of massive government corruption that is sure to follow the onset of Obamacare. It’s a must read.”

~ Herman Cain, Businessman & Tea Party Activist

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The New Book Review is blogged by Carolyn Howard-Johnson, author of the multi award-winning HowToDoItFrugally series of books for writers. It is a free service offered to those who want to encourage the reading of books they love. That includes authors who want to share their favorite reviews, reviewers who'd like to see their reviews get more exposure, and readers who want to shout out praise of books they've read. Please see submission guidelines on the left of this page. Reviews and essays are indexed by genre, reviewer names, and review sites. Writers will find the search engine handy for gleaning the names of small publishers. Find other writer-related blogs at Sharing with Writers and The Frugal, Smart and Tuned-In Editor. As a courtesy to the author, please tweet and retweet this post using this little green retweet widget :