Tag: Crime Thriller

‘Tequila’: Power, Passion, and Betrayal — Inside Tim Reuben’s Explosive Family Thriller

‘Tequila’ is Tim Reuben’s debut novel. Photo: Barnes & Noble

Book Spotlight & Review: Tequila: A Story of Success, Love & Violence by Tim Reuben

Release Date: October 14
Available for Pre-Order Now

A Battle for Power, Love, and Survival

From the fiery heart of Mexico to the high-stakes boardrooms of Manhattan, an empire built on tequila becomes the battlefield for a blistering war of power, betrayal, and forbidden love in Tim Reuben’s explosive debut thriller, Tequila: A Story of Success, Love & Violence.

Spanning generations, Tequila follows the rise and near-ruin of the Ramirez family, founders of RAM, a multibillion-dollar luxury spirits powerhouse. When Maria Ramirez steps into the role of CEO, her greatest threats aren’t rival corporations, but her own brothers: Miguel, the corrupt sociopath, and Tomaso, the self-destructive heir spiraling out of control.

An Empire on the Brink

LA attorney Brian Youngman enters the Ramirez world when he’s hired for Tomaso’s divorce case. What he uncovers, cartel ties, financial crimes, and unimaginable violence, pulls him into a web of danger and desire. His growing love for Maria collides with his pursuit of justice, making him a reluctant hero in a battle where survival demands sacrifice.

The story begins in 1950 in the Jaliscan Highlands of Mexico, where Sotero Jimenez, a struggling agave farmer, fights to build his dream amid poverty and corruption. In the present day, chaos erupts when Tomaso’s wife, Nora, is abducted in Houston, a chilling event that sets the stage for the Ramirez family’s unraveling.

As the family grapples with betrayal, cartel violence, and devastating loss, the empire they built on agave and ambition teeters on the edge of collapse.

Review

Tim Reuben’s Tequila is a sweeping family saga that fuses corporate intrigue, legal drama, and raw emotional tension. The characters, especially Maria, are sharply drawn, and readers can feel the weight of her burden as she navigates both external enemies and the toxic loyalty of family.

Told through a non-linear narrative, the story moves between the Ramirez family’s humble origins and their modern-day descent into greed and betrayal. The pacing is relentless and filled with legal battles, family drama, and shocking twists.

At its core, Tequila explores the price of power, the fragility of loyalty, and the fine line between love and destruction. It’s a genre-bending debut that grips from start to finish; a compelling saga of justice, sacrifice, and ambition’s deadly cost.

Verdict: For fans of Succession, Narcos, or The Godfather, Tequila is a must-read.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Content & Trigger Warning

This novel includes scenes of sexual content, sexual violence, and sadism, primarily connected to Miguel, a sadistic character whose cruelty is central to the story’s darker turns. Reader discretion is advised.

About the Author

Tim Reuben is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School. A veteran trial lawyer, he founded his own litigation firm in Los Angeles and frequently publishes essays and articles on law and society. Tequila is his debut novel.

*Thank you to Meryl Moss Media Group for my gifted Advanced Reader Copy for review consideration. I haven’t been compensated for this review and all views and opinions expressed are my own.

Hunted and Haunted: A Review of ‘Soon to Be Mine’ by K.J. Kalis

‘Soon To Be Mine’ by K.J. Kalis is book 4 in the Detective Emily Tizzano Vigilante Justice series. Photo: Amazon

Book Review: “Soon to Be Mine” by K.J. Kalis

A Detective Emily Tizzano Vigilante Justice Thriller

Synopsis

Federal prosecutor Nicole Strickland is being hunted. Terrorized by a man who won’t leave her alone, she lives in constant fear, feeling his eyes on her at every turn. Her brother, FBI Agent Cash Strickland, wants to help—but without actionable evidence, the law is powerless.

Desperate, Cash turns to Emily Tizzano, a former Chicago PD cold case detective known for bending the law to serve justice. But Emily and Cash have unresolved history, and she’s skeptical—of him, his sister, and the true motives behind the request for help.

Is this really about protecting Nicole, or is it something more complicated?

Review

“Soon to Be Mine” plunges readers into a suspense-filled world where justice doesn’t always follow the rules. Nicole is a compelling protagonist—strong, principled, but also deeply vulnerable. K.J. Kalis crafts her anxiety and growing desperation with raw, emotional depth. Nicole’s determination to handle things her own way can be frustrating, especially as her stalker Ethan escalates his pursuit.

Cash’s position as both a brother and an FBI agent adds emotional complexity, while the tension between him and Emily fuels the narrative. However, Emily’s hesitancy to engage due to her murky past with Cash lacks sufficient backstory. Similarly, her dynamic with her tech-savvy friend Mike feels underdeveloped—his role and relationship to her remain unclear.

The novel’s strength lies in its pacing and emotional stakes. Kalis writes with intensity, and scenes like Ethan’s obsessive search for Nicole or Nicole’s late-night fear feel chillingly real:

“Ethan was frustrated. He’s spent the entire morning circling the building, trying to get a glimpse of Nicole, but she was nowhere to be found.”

“Fear gripped her. She stared out into the backyard again through the gap in the curtain, waiting. Her breath was caught in her chest. Her heart pounded, sending a rush of blood into her ears.”

Though it’s the fourth in the Emily Tizzano series, “Soon to Be Mine” works as a standalone, but readers may find themselves craving more character depth that previous books might provide.

Series Reading Order

  1. Twelve Years Gone
  2. Lakeview Vendetta
  3. Victim 14
  4. Soon to Be Mine
  5. The Investor
  6. The Killing Graves
  7. Deadly Verdict

About the Author

K.J. Kalis is known for gritty, heart-pounding thrillers that explore the darker sides of justice, obsession, and survival. Her work spans categories including medical thrillers, military suspense, and vigilante justice. A former poet and professional copywriter, her thrillers consistently rank in Amazon’s Top 100.

Final Thoughts

This book is perfect for fans of fast-paced suspense novels by authors like James Patterson and Harlan Coben. With its chilling stalker plot, themes of justice and family loyalty, and a resilient heroine, “Soon to Be Mine” delivers gripping storytelling that stays with you long after the final page.

Have you read any of the Emily Tizzano books? Let me know in the comments which one is your favorite or what you thought of Nicole’s story.

Rating: 3.5 out of 5.

Justice, Lies, and Mystery: The Interrogation of Anna Goode

The gripping crime thriller The Interrogation of Anna Goode is coming to digital and on demand on April 8, 2025. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Crime thrillers captivate audiences with their intense narratives, suspenseful twists, and morally complex characters. These films often explore the darker sides of human nature, weaving intricate plots filled with deception, mystery, and high-stakes action. Viewers are drawn to the adrenaline rush of solving crimes alongside detectives or navigating the minds of criminals. The unpredictability and psychological depth keep audiences on edge, making each moment gripping. From classic noir to modern psychological thrillers, crime films provide an escape into a world of danger and intrigue, where justice is uncertain and the line between good and evil is often blurred.

The new crime thriller The Interrogation of Anna Goode is coming to digital and on demand on April 8, 2025. (One Tree Entertainment, 2025)

The Interrogation of Anna Goode – While questioning a murder suspect, FBI Agent John Savage inexplicably finds himself on the opposite side of the table. Now framed for the crime, he must go to extreme lengths to reveal the shocking truth.

Written & directed by DC Hamilton
Starring Max Adler, Neil Hopkins, Brinna Kelly

The Interrogation of Anna Goode movie still. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

The G: Exciting New Revenge Thriller Starring Dale Dickey and Romane Denis

Gritting revenge thriller The G is available now on digital download and Blu-ray. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Revenge thrillers have remained popular because they captivate audiences with their intense exploration of justice and retribution. They often follow a protagonist driven by a deep-seated need to avenge a wrong, leading to a gripping narrative of suspense and moral ambiguity. These films are marked by their high-stakes action, psychological tension, and complex characters. The quest for vengeance typically unravels through a series of dramatic confrontations and twists, keeping viewers on edge. With their potent mix of personal vendettas and explosive sequences, revenge thrillers offer a cathartic experience, prompting audiences to reflect on themes of justice, morality, and the cost of retribution.

In today’s movie news, The G is a new revenge thriller starring Dale Dickey, Romane Denis & Jonathan Koensgen. It’s the story of a mysterious older woman who seeks revenge on the corrupt legal guardian who destroyed her life. (Strike Media, 2024)

Written and directed by Karl R. Hearne, The G is available now to own or rent via Prime Video, Apple TV, Sky Store, Virgin Media Store and YouTube Movies, and own on Blu-ray from Amazon and HMV.

The G – Ann Hunter and her husband retired to an unnamed American suburb 10 years ago to be near his family. One day out of the blue they are snatched from their home by a corrupt legal guardian. Their home and assets are legally stripped from them and they are put in a prison-like “eldercare facility.” Trapped in a corrupt and terrifying system, “THE G” (Ann Hunter) begins to show her true mettle as she and her loyal granddaughter fight to get them out and get revenge on the people who did this.

“…an absorbing tale of regret, revenge, and Dickey at the top of her game.”
The Hollywood News

“Dickey is remarkable.”
Screen International

Dale Dickey as Ann Hunter in The G. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Crescent City: A Riveting New Crime Thriller

Terrence Howard and Esai Morales star in Crescent City. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

So just what is the appeal of movies centered around a serial killer? These types of movies captivate audiences through their intense psychological exploration and suspenseful storytelling. They explore the darkest corners of human nature, offering a fascination with the macabre and a glimpse into the minds of criminals whose motives and methods challenge our understanding. The blend of fear, mystery, and the hunt for justice keeps viewers on edge, while the intricate plotting and character development provide a compelling narrative. (Cinematic Red PR, 2024)

In today’s movie news, the newest one out there is Crescent City, starring Terrence Howard, Esai Morales, Alec Baldwin, and Nicky Whelan in a mesmerizing crime thriller about what it costs to catch a killer.

Crescent City opens in theaters on August 16, 2024 and is available on digital and On Demand.

When a relentless serial killer terrorizes a small southern town, everyone becomes a suspect, including local authorities. As the body count rises and the dark mystery deepens, the chief detective becomes haunted by the horrors of his past.

Director: RJ Collins
Writer: Rich Ronat
Executive Producers: Angie Sanfilippo, Cole Garson, Paul Swigart, Richie Hill, Barry Brooker, Stan Wertlieb, Josh Spector, Matthew Hechinger, Nat Mccormick, Brian O’Shea, Rick Dugdale, Sean Lydiard, Eric Brenner, Anjul Nigam, Jeff Rice, Michael Sirow, Mira Park Howard, Andrea Collins, Inna Tuler, Vladislav Lapidus
Producers: Denise Loren, Eduard Osipov, Vince Jolivette, David Lipper, Robert A. Daly Jr.
Rating: R for violence, grisly images, language throughout, and sexual content.
Genre: Crime, Thriller
Runtime: 103 Mins

Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Exploring Solitude: A Deep Dive into ‘The Alone Time’

‘The Alone Time’ is Elle Marr’s latest psychological thriller. Photo: Amazon

“The Alone Time” – When Fiona and Violet Seng were just children, their family’s Cessna crash-landed in the Washington wilderness during a family vacation. It claimed the lives of their parents and for twelve weeks, the girls fended for themselves before being rescued. (Amazon, 2024)

Twenty-five years later, they’re still trying to move on from the trauma. Fiona uses their experience to create controversial works of art. Violet has battled addiction and failed relationships to finally progress toward normalcy as a writer. The estranged sisters never speak about what they call their Alone Time in the wild. They wouldn’t dare—until they become the subject of a documentary that renews public fascination with the “girl survivors” and questions their version of the events.

Now a strange woman claims to know the truth surrounding the crash and Fiona and Violet must work together to face the horrifying truth of what happened out there and what they learned about their parents and themselves before any other secrets emerge from the woods. Seeking the truth, Fiona and Violet go back to the scene of the crash to face the painful truth once and for all.

Review:
Elle Marr’s “The Alone Time” explores the psychological complexities of isolation and fear, crafting a gripping narrative that keeps readers on edge from start to finish. The narration switches between the points of view of Fiona, Henry, Janet, and Violet to give readers deep insight into the character’s mindset; though the non-linear narrative gets confusing at times. At best, it reminds us of how unreliable our childhood memories tend to be. 

Marr’s skillful prose weaves a chilling atmosphere, drawing readers into Fiona and Violet’s increasingly fragile mental state as they confront both external threats and their own inner demons. The narrative is rich with suspense, as layers of mystery unfold with each page turned, leaving a trail of unanswered questions that compel the reader to keep reading. The language is rich and descriptive: “Branches extend toward us as if welcoming us into their lush grave..”

The character development is nuanced and makes the characters relatable, particularly Violet’s journey from vulnerability to strength as she fights to reclaim her sense of security. With themes of survival, family, and resilience, the author paints a vivid portrait of women pushed to their limits and beyond. The numerous plot-twists make this a first rate thriller.

Overall, “The Alone Time” is a masterful thriller that combines atmospheric tension with profound emotional depth, making it a compelling read for fans of psychological suspense. Marr proves herself a formidable storyteller with this gripping tale of fear and redemption in the wilderness. It is recommended for readers who enjoy suspense thrillers with complex characters.

“After a certain level of trauma is reached, the only choice we have is to either feel the pain in all its depth and depravity or choose numbness-ice to assuage the heat.”

*The author received a copy of this book through Amazon First Reads. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Harvesting Evil’ by CJ Wheeler

A serial killer is on the loose in CJ Wheeler’s crime thriller ‘Harvesting Evil.’ Courtesy photo, used with permission.

CJ Wheeler is a new author of crime thrillers for adults, starting with her first release “Harvesting Evil.” She was born in West Michigan and has lived most of her life along the Lake Michigan shoreline. She lives with her wife, her gorgeous English Crème retriever Hemingway, and her three naughty kitties, Indianajoan, Rizzoli, and Taylor. When not writing you will probably find her reading. She is an avid fan of JD Robb, Tess Gerritsen, Alex Kava, and Val McDermid. In her debut novel “Harvesting Evil,” the idyllic shores of Lake Michigan, in the quiet resort town of Port Orion, Michigan, have become prime hunting ground for a serial killer. (CJ Wheeler, 2023)

“Harvesting Evil: Murder on the Lakeshore” – One by one, young, beautiful women’s corpses continue to surface, while the timeline between each victim is shrinking. The story begins with a Prologue set in 1990 as a seven year old boy is about to have the worst birthday ever. Next, in the present, Sheriff Parker Anderson gets a phone call in the middle of the night about another young woman found dead. She must now pull her inexperienced team together to find the madman terrorizing her community. With the Port Orion Sheriff’s department’s resources stretched to the limit and with pressure mounting, Parker reaches out to the FBI for assistance. Enter Special Agent Oliver Locke, who has seen more than his fair share of serial homicide cases, though even he has not encountered a psychopath with this level of violence. Working a serial case against a cunning criminal mind who leaves no evidence will test his expertise and determination. As the window of opportunity to prevent another victim closes, Sheriff Anderson and Agent Locke will need to set aside their personal differences to catch this maniac.

Since the days of Jack the Ripper, stories about serial killers have fascinated readers. While the motivations behind this killer’s rampage may not be an original concept, “Harvesting Evil” is a strong debut crime novel by CJ Wheeler. Narrated in the third person point of view, it switches back and forth between the police and the serial killer, giving the reader a glimpse into the killer’s unstable and cold psyche and the police’s investigation, which includes giving a profile of the ‘unsub.’ The author’s detailed description of morgues and autopsies is impressive but it might put off more sensitive readers. Due to extensive character development and descriptions: “Mike’s 6’ 2” lanky frame rose from the chair, black straight hair hanging over one of his deep blue eyes,” they come alive within the pages and become relatable. The language is down to earth and easy to understand, in spite of the medical jargon, so it is technically an easy read. With its superb attention to detail, applications of criminal psychology, and just enough romance to make it well rounded, “Harvesting Evil” makes for a fascinating and suspenseful crime thriller. It should appeal to fans of Kathy Reichs and James Patterson as well as crime shows like Criminal Minds and CSI. Hopefully this will become a series with more crime solving adventures by Sheriff Parker Anderson, a strong female lead, and Special Agent Oliver Locke.

“He hoped the Sheriff would be pleased with the gift he had left her. It had taken cunning and exquisite timing to set it up exactly as he wanted. He knew this would show her he could do what he wanted, whenever he wanted. At the very least, he would impress her. At most he hoped it would frighten her to her core.”

* The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

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