THE EARTH SHIFTER and other reviews are coming!
5.0 out of 5 stars Solid Gold Thriller, February 18, 2012 By Jason Sullivan (USA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME) This review is from: Gold Train (Jade Snow International Adventures) (Kindle Edition) If you enjoyed the charming young detective, Jade Snow, in Stepford, USA, you will absolutely love her next adventure in Gold Train. Jade travels to Russia to do a piece for Time magazine and the second she steps off the plane the excitement, and magic, begins. This thriller has it all! It has the two romantic locations of Moscow and St. Petersburg for its backdrop. It has real princes and princesses, who may or may not be undercover agents and spies. It has the whisperings of revolution, deepening international intrigue, plus beautiful trains and huge piles of gold! Jade, however, is the real treat. She does not have super powers, nor even any formal training in the spy business, but she is daring, and clever, and her heart is always in the right place. She must rely on her intution to make choices her life, and world peace, depend on. Read Gold Train and be transfixed as Jade stays one step ahead of her adversaries through quick thinking and bold actions. This book is so believable it reads like a true story. Lada Ray takes you inside the grand houses of Russia to witness an unfolding mystery you will not soon forget. 5.0 out of 5 stars Review for Rachel's Book Reviews, February 18, 2012 By Todd L. Andrews - See all my reviews This review is from: Gold Train (Jade Snow International Adventures) (Kindle Edition) Based on actual events, I found it an amazing book. I felt like it was true to Russia, like I was actually there, spying on uprising monarchists. If I were to make a comparison, I would say it reminded me of Nancy Drew, always in the right place at just the wrong time. Except this is an adult version. On top of breakneck action, the ending blew my socks off. I really wasn't expecting that to happen! It was 100% an original book. It's even inspired me to learn Russian (that'll be an adventure in itself!) Like Jade I think it'll give me new insight to people in my family I never knew. (although, here's to hoping it won't involve a murder!) 5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliantly Written - A MUST Read, December 20, 2011 By The Kindle Book Review - See all my reviews This review is from: Gold Train (Jade Snow Russia Adventure) (Kindle Edition) For the fans of The Da Vinci Code and National Treasure comes this gripping new thriller, based on true historic events! 1918: Civil war in Russia. The entire Gold Reserve of the Russian Empire vanishes without a trace. Today: journalist Jade Snow travels to Russia to uncover a dangerous conspiracy, find the world's largest treasure and experience forbidden passion, defying time and space. I thoroughly enjoyed this book - the opening chapter gives us a little insight into the Gold Train in 1918 and then goes to present day where we meet Jade Snow, it's been her lifelong ambition to visit Russia, a promise she owed to her Grandma's memory. I found myself quickly engrossed into this book as I needed to find out the mystery of the Gold Train. I don't want to give much more away about the plot lines but they were brilliantly written and the story is just fantastic - there is layers that go deeper and deeper as we go along and I just loved it. I love the relationship between Jade and Alexi - you can sense they're feelings from that initial meeting as he was her rescuer when she was mugged. This was the start of the real action in the book, I thought the action scenes were once again brilliantly written - especially the one at the station. I also enjoyed the suspense in the book, I just had to carry on reading to get to the end. I found that the way the author described the scenery and landmarks of Russia was just amazing - it made me want to go and visit myself. I was as interested in reading about the landmarks as I was about the actual storyline! This book had it all, not only a great mystery, and action but a little romance and even some humour. It really was superb, fast paced and well written. For me it was also one of those books that gets you thinking about things - even after you finish reading. I really hope that we get to here more from Jade Snow and also Alexi Hayley Sale ~ The Kindle Book Review 5.0 out of 5 stars "Jade Snow is to journalism, what Jason Bourne is to action and espionage." December 29, 2011 By J.J.Collins (London, UK) - See all my reviews This review is from: Gold Train (Jade Snow Russia Adventure) (Kindle Edition) Author - Lada Ray introduces this excellent thriller against the back drop of 1918 Revolutionary Russia and a train carrying a special cargo in a remote part of Russia. This special train is carrying a cargo which much be protected at all costs and is being guarded by the "Red" (Bolshevik) forces. The naïve train driver spots two young children ahead on the tracks, who fail to remove themselves from the track, forcing him to use his human instincts and apply the brakes. The consequences of this action will be far-reaching and will stretch into the very heart of modern day Russian politics. The attempts to get the train moving at a safe speed again prove fruitless, as the special train comes under attack from the "White" (anti-Bolshevik) forces, which are loyal to the Tsarist autocracy. The train and its precious cargo are stripped with all Red forces being wiped out, before the horse train and precious cargo disappear into the cold Russian night and thick forest. The story then propels us forward into modern day New York City and into the seemingly simple life of housewife, mother and pet-lover - Jade Snow. A devoted wife, Jade has given up her journalistic career, for a simple but happy life, with her investigative journalist husband Paul. Jade we learn, has a certain psychic talent and comes from a proud Russian lineage. Jade's Russian roots and interest, were heavily influenced by her beloved Grand Mother Anastacia who told her tales of golden domes and magical balls in Mother Russia. It is this interest and fascination that leads to a conversation with a fellow Russian Journalist, Svetlana, and changes Jade's life and career direction forever. What evolves is a brilliantly crafted thriller with murder, mystery, espionage and captivating twists and turns throughout. The author takes us on a tantalising, rip roaring, dangerous, action packed, yet passionate journey across modern day Russia. What consequences will a sudden encounter with a stranger have on Jade's life, who is this attractive and mysterious man really? Can she trust him? Alone in a faraway unfamiliar land, Jade is caught in a web of lies, glamour, terror and intrigue that leaves you gripped to the plot at all times. Jade's investigative journalistic instincts take her unintentionally into a dark world, where security services and terrorist activities left unchecked, could potentially have global consequences. Against this burdensome and dangerous backdrop, Jade has to persevere in her pursuit of truth under extreme scrutiny, knowing one mistake could change not only her own life, but the destiny of one of the world's most powerful nations. Jade Snow is to journalism, what Jason Bourne is to action and espionage. The author has managed to develop a character with a fascinating thoughtful purpose. "Gold Train" is an absolute must read, the author goes beyond the obvious and whisks us along into the heart-stopping world of Jade Snow with breath-taking appeal for the next paragraph and page. The author's knowledge and comprehension of the Russian political scene brings a very credible and believable level of authenticity to the plot. A mesmeric thriller, "Gold Train" is marvellous book which has something for every reader. It leaves you wanting and calling for the next instalment in the adventures of International Journalist extraordinaire - Jade Snow. 5.0 out of 5 stars A Race for Gold!, December 30, 2011 By KatesReads - See all my reviews This review is from: Gold Train (Jade Snow Russia Adventure) (Kindle Edition) Gold Train by Lada Ray is a thriller based on actual events. During the Russian Revolution the entire gold reserve of the Russian Empire disappears while being transported by train. It is still missing. Jade Snow is a veteran reporter who returns to work after maternity leave to help in an investigation of the Gold Train story and the possible whereabouts of the gold. The request for help comes from a Russian journalist who has extensively studied the history of it. She jumps at the opportunity to work again and also to explore her Russian heritage. Once in Russia she connects with old acquaintances of her grandmother who are all members of a society for Russian nobility. Their main interest is in returning the Russian Empire to noble rule. When the journalist that sent for her is found murdered the chase is on. Everyone is on a hunt to find the gold first. Everyone has their own reasons for acquiring the gold. As the circle of conspirators tightens Jade must struggle to keep at the head of the chase. Along the way she encounters a man who just might be here soul mate and passions ignite. Gold Train is a fast paced thrill ride filled with great characters you will love and villains you will hate. And maybe a few you won't know whether to love or hate. This is definitely one to read! 5.0 out of 5 stars Twilight with a Pulse AND a Vodka Twist - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!, December 21, 2011 By Madeline Walsh (New York) - See all my reviews This review is from: Gold Train (Jade Snow Russia Adventure) (Kindle Edition) I enjoyed reading this book very much! I felt that I couldn't put it down, it is very passionate. I would VERY HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves suspense and adventure mysteries! The book is very well written. I was lovestruck with the interaction between the characters, how well they work together, complimenting one another so well to solve the mystery. Jade Snow is a very intuitive, resourceful, quick thinking, witty heroine and Alexei is well... a total hunk. I love how the plot develops, very thrilling story of conspiracy that might potentially overthrow the Russian government, shift the balance of power and lead to dire consequences, even to another World War! The plot had me by the edge of my seat, the twists and turns had me thinking, what's Jade gonna do next? What would I do if I were in her position? Very powerful fast action pace kept me reading to the very end! I loved the colorful descriptions of life unfolding before my eyes in Moscow, St Petersburg, the Menshikov Mansion, Grand Ball, the infamous KGB/FSB headquarters, high-speed trains and gorgeous Russian Metro. The grand ballroom scene was magnificent, I could see myself dancing in the arms of some Prince in a mysterious far off land... so romantic. Alexei stood out as a character because he is so strong, handsome and debonnaire. He can literally charm the pants off any girl... I wouldn't mind being alone in a hotel room with him... so hot and sexy, I was dripping with anticipation. I would love to read more about Alexei in the future Jade Snow books! In Gold Train, I think everyone will find mystery, suspense, action, passion, romance... and an amazing timeless story! Review by: Larisa Vicente, Fiction Crit Blog, January 20, 2012 Gold Train, by Lada Ray, is a mystery thriller based on real-life events. Now, I'm the kind of person who loves a good true mystery! When I found out about D.B. Cooper, I immediately had to go look the guy up, come up with theories as to what happened... Unsolved Mysteries was one of my favorite T.V. shows. Naturally, this book's plot -- seeking the precious gold stolen in 1918 civil war Russia -- peeked my interest right off the bat. And the writer did not disappoint. Lada started this story back when the gold reserve was stolen, then fast-forwarded to modern day, where our protagonist, Jade Snow, began her adventure to find out what happened to one of history's lost treasures. Since the beginning thrusts the reader into a world where murder is simply the catch of the day, and the loot is just about to be snatched from the train, there is excitement right from the get-go. They say you should start a book, or movie, etc. with action. But sometimes it comes across as forced, like the writer was trying too hard to make the work fit within this "rule". This was not like that. The beginning was indeed filled with action, but it was relevant, essential to setting up the story, not forced or out of place at all. After I got all worked up by the start of it, the story lulled into a nice set up of characters and settings. But it didn't stay there for long. The writer did an excellent job of moving the story along at a pace that wasn't too fast or too slow. You're not waiting desperately for SOMETHING to happen, and you aren't begging for a little downtime to build suspense either. It's like she hit the "Goldilocks Zone" for writing a mystery/thriller -- just right. Most of the story is in first person POV, from Jade's perspective. I usually have a huge problem with a character describing themselves, but Lada managed to pull it off. It was fitting, the character is a journalist, and it didn't come over as overly arrogant or self-deprecating (too many characters who describe themselves in any way fit one of these two personality quirks). I loved the fact that, like Dean Koontz, Lada chose to write in many short chapters, rather than fewer looooong chapters. I appreciate shorter chapters in this kind of work, it allows me to finish a chapter or two in one sitting, then take a break from the mayhem... so I can attend to the regular mayhem of my funny little home. ;) If you're the kind of person who loves a good mystery, especially one inspired by true events, I would definitely recommend this ebook. It's available on Amazon and Smashwords, probably other places as well. It's intriguing, low-priced, was able to hold the interest of an impatient pleasure-reader (*cough*me*cough*), and a great, non-cozy mystery. |
5.0 out of 5 stars STEPFORD, USA - A Mystery - Highly recommended, February 7, 2012 By J.J.Collins "J.J.Collins" (London, UK) - See all my reviews This review is from: Stepford USA (Jade Snow International Adventures Prequel) (Kindle Edition) This first instalment by Author - Lada Ray introduces us to brilliant investigative journalist - Jade Snow. Jade Snow we learn, is a twenty eight year old all action investigative journalist used to dodging straying bullets in Afghanistan, before a near death experience throws her into the arms of her soon to be husband Paul. What Jade doesn't realise is that her days of investigative journalism and an all action career are about to come to an abrupt halt when motherhood dawns or is it? This thriller is set in the sleepy surroundings of Stepford, Massachusetts, a small town community in America that hides a deep dark secret. Jade finds herself in this sleepy town against her wishes following her husband's insistence on finding her a nice, quiet and calm environment for her to remain fit and well during her pregnancy. Jade Snow we learn is no ordinary young mum to be. It is not long before her inquisitive mind and investigative instincts, lead her onto the trail of a devastating dark hidden secret within the community. A crime so horrendous and brutal, it lives on in the lives and happenings of this sleepy hallow even until the present day. Jade's loneliness and love of quality company finds her being introduced, and soon becoming part of the social set-up of this most picturesque of American town's. The intimate circle of six women Jade would join, unbeknown to her, will transform her time in Stepford from a peaceful relaxing stay into an intriguing web of lies, deceit and mystery. The pursuit of the truth will not only put Jade Snow and the life of her unborn child in grave danger, it will have a profound impact on the lives and community of this most fascinating of small towns for years to come. This story of a horrific crime, a victim, an accused person and powerful local interests, desperate to keep the truth hidden from the larger world, only makes Jade Snow throw off her restrictive temporary physical shackles and risk all, to unravel the truth. The pursuit of truth among the complex personalities of this town, and an eagerness for someone to keep it hidden at all costs makes the challenge appear impossible. Stepford USA takes us on a journey with this charming, sharp minded young journalist in a race to reveal the truth before someone else is killed, will Jade succeed? Can she protect herself and the life of her unborn child? Who can she trust? Anyone? Will she manage to discover the facts before it costs someone their life or even her own? On the face of it, Stepford is a thriving small town community the likes of which are splattered across the American continent however, the deceit and manipulation facing Jade threatens not just people, it threatens the very way of life of this beautiful town. Undeterred, Jade Snow takes us on a gripping, dark psychological adventure, where unrealised talents may be the difference between life and death for Jade and others. Does the answer to the secret rest within the group of six ladies "Knitting Club"? All women of varying ages and loyalties. We are introduced to Lady Adelaide Paphos, an elegant motherly like lady, who develops a fondness and close bond with Jade during her time in Stepford. Her son Jason who harbours a long held secret. Then a chance lunch time meeting with the power players of the local community that introduces us to the young police chief - Chief Nordini, Judge Bowman, Lawyer Marc Catcham, Banker Peter Burns and the quiet Jack Maloof. These men all with varying interests and knowledge of the comings and goings of the town extend an invitation to the elite Rotary Club to Jade. How will this innocent invitation propel Jade into an even more intricate web of unimagined deceit? Jade's investigative journey takes us to a "Hidden Lake", a chance encounter with a friendly neighbour and his dog, a virtual reality experience and observing one of the married town influencers groping a woman out of sight of others. How does all this relate to the truth? Can it be found and who is watching Jade's every move? This page turning thriller is exciting, full of suspicion and possesses excellent character development throughout. It challenges the reader to consider the glaringly obvious and not so obvious, reality and challenge their own perceptions of reality and illusion in the pursuit of destroying the prejudices found in every small town. Will Jade and her soon to be born baby survive the small town experience? The author has managed to develop a character with a fascinating thoughtful purpose. The brilliant combination of plot, character development and unexpected twists and turns, keeps the reader addicted to the next turned page. Once you start reading this book, you will not put it down such is the perfect pace and flow of words in which the book is written by the author. Psychological thrillers don't get much better than this. Excitingly and yet chillingly gripping, it's the sort of plot line that surprises you at every turn and absolutely does not let you go. A highly recommended read for anyone. 5.0 out of 5 stars Exciting Psychological Thriller, December 30, 2011 By Jason Sullivan (USA) - See all my reviews This review is from: Stepford USA (Jade Snow International Adventures Prequel) (Kindle Edition) Some people think small town life is uneventful. Jade Snow, the protagonist of Lada Ray's mystery-thriller, Stepford USA, thought so as well. But Jade was soon to learn that sleepy little towns can hold the biggest, scariest secrets! Jade arrives in Stepford in order to rest up before having a baby. However, she quickly starts to pick up hints that everything is not all charm and tranquility. Many years ago a horrible crime was committed from which the dust has never quite settled. With her husband halfway around the world, and while she awaits the birth of her baby, Jade tries to uncover the truth. But who can she trust? In a small town that harbors a dangerous secret one misstep can be fatal! This exciting page-turner written by Lada Ray will have you guessing who did it from the very beginning. Lada skillfully weaves many surprises into this psychological thriller. Her exquisite scene setting together with compelling dialogue makes Stepford USA a fascinating, if at times nail-biting, read. If you are a cat lover, as I must admit I am, you will very much enjoy the exploits of a certain heroic feline who plays no small part in this book. I highly recommend Stepford USA. Jade Snow is intelligent, warm and witty. Join her as she puts the pieces together and helps release a town from its dark, hidden past. 4 of 4 people found the following review helpful: 5.0 out of 5 stars Finding the monster within... A Beautifully Written Tale!, November 3, 2011 By Madeline Walsh (New York) - See all my reviews This review is from: Stepford USA (Jade Snow International Adventures Prequel) (Kindle Edition) While the story is told with light-hearted humor, deep, dark, hidden secrets is the theme of this book. It shows great insight into human behavior, perceptions and manipulations. The book has a true to life quality about it. It's amazing how the minority in power can manipulate a whole population to suit their own agenda! I like how the story portrays the "Stepfordness" of the town, how mindless consensus and conformity can dangerously create serious injustices in this world. Remember, Stepford is not just a physical location, it's a state of being inherent in the human condition. A timely written warning that only when we can honestly look within, can we identify and root out all the evil without. Very well written and gripping tale that will leave you guessing to the very end! Excellent storytelling! 5.0 out of 5 stars Stepford USA really gave me something to think about, Highly Recommended!, January 13, 2012 By Sue Hennings (Florida, USA) This review is from: Stepford USA (Jade Snow International Adventures Prequel) (Kindle Edition) I really enjoyed reading this book, it draws you in and keeps you guessing until the very end. Jade Snow, a worldly and sophisticated investigative journalist, finds herself pregnant and stuck in an idyllic little town. Yet, the flawless facade of this seemingly well-adjusted town starts crumbling, when a wrongfully convicted man returns from jail and Jade uncovers a deep, dark conspiracy of the "rich and famous" of Stepford. A wonderful book, easy and pleasant to read, but it makes you pause and think about the injustices that still exist in our world. 5.0 out of 5 stars A Chilling Story with Adventure, Humor and Hope, is Reality Really Possible?, September 6, 2011 By Mary Ellis (las vegas nv) This review is from: Stepford USA (Jade Snow International Adventures Prequel) (Kindle Edition) I enjoyed reading this uplifting book by Ms Ray, filled with intrigue and irresistible characters which make you question the very reality that we are living through during these uncertain times. Like the proverbial Alice falling the down the rabbit hole, this story leads you on a journey where the world we live in, with our conditioned beliefs and conclusions, are not what it seems. What if EVERYTHING you thought that's real was but manufactured illusion, and reality can only be pierced consciously by breaking out of ourselves to uncover the hidden truth within? This is a reminder to question everything you hold sacred, all the sacred cows, established institutions of society that espouse living the "American Dream", where one must succeed at all cost. Jade Snow, an investigative journalist senses that all is not right in this idyllic sleepy/ creepy little town of Stepford. By all appearances, Stepford seems like the perfect place to nurture a pregnancy when one is not covering the latest reports from war torn countries. Well, Eden is about to reveal it's darkest secret, with the help of Jade's best friend Rachel- a psychoanalyst, an adorably smart and sassy cat named Lily and a group of small town ladies known only as "the knitting club". From paranormal psychic visions to virtual reality laboratories, Jade experiences this small town, which is not at all what it seems. Laced with cool humor and insight, Jade and her friends solve the daunting mystery. In total denial at first, the town's people must slowly come to the realization that not all is well in paradise and need to face their own prejudices and shortcomings in order to heal and come together as one community. A superb social commentary, Stepford USA is a microcosm for Anytown Internationale. I love the positive, optimistic ending. Can't wait for the next Jade Snow adventure! |
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