Peter Thomas Pontsa (Author of Sanctity of Freedom)

Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing Deep Into the Night's Edge: A Water Kascade Novel by A.L. Wahdel	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author/publisher. This review reflects my honest opinion. This gritty, slow paced crime thriller delivers a gripping ride against the politically charged streets of Toronto and an outlaw biker wh ...more
Sep 15, 2026 07:10PM · 1 like · like · see review
Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing Toy Soldiers: Laura Amour Thriller, #3 by David Wickenden	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
I thank the author for providing an advanced reader copy of this book. David Wickenden’s Toy Soldier is a gripping and, at times, deeply disturbing thriller that introduces readers to Laura Armour, a protagonist whose methodical, patient, and resource ...more
Aug 08, 2026 06:43PM · 1 like · like · see review
Peter Pontsa liked READER VIEWS's review of Sanctity of Freedom: An Action Adventure Mystery (An Inspector William Fox Series): "Although I read a variety of books in most genres, I have a soft spot for a good espionage thriller, and Sanctity of Freedom: An Inspector William Fox Series by Peter Thomas Pontsa just melted me in a good way. As soon as I started reading this book," Read more of this review »
Feb 23, 2026 01:57PM · see review · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of Sanctity of Freedom by Peter Thomas Pontsa. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — Sanctity of Freedom by Peter Thomas Pontsa <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">
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Feb 23, 2026 01:57PM · like
Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing Too Dark for the Light: A Water Kascade Novel by A.L. Wahdel	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
In Too Dark for the Light, A. L. Wahdel delivers a chilling debut that blends police procedural realism with stirring noir and psychological depth. The novel introduces Detective Sergeant Water Kascade, a seasoned Toronto police officer nearing retir ...more
Jan 24, 2026 06:30AM · like · see review
Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing Riversong by Rosemary McCracken (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Rosemary McCracken excels at crafting a sprawling cast of suspects, each with believable motives, and Riversong is a strong example of her skill as a mystery writer. The investigation unfolds methodically through interviews, surveillance footage, and ...more
Jan 24, 2026 06:30AM · like · see review · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of Riversong by Rosemary McCracken. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — Riversong by Rosemary McCracken <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">
Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing Riversong by Rosemary McCracken (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Rosemary McCracken excels at crafting a sprawling cast of suspects, each with believable motives, and Riversong is a strong example of her skill as a mystery writer. The investigation unfolds methodically through interviews, surveillance footage, and ...more
Jan 24, 2026 06:28AM · like · see review · preview book See a Problem? We’d love your help. Let us know what’s wrong with this preview of Riversong by Rosemary McCracken. Problem: Details (if other): Thanks for telling us about the problem. Not the book you’re looking for? Preview — Riversong by Rosemary McCracken <iframe sandbox id="wrongBookKindlePreviewScreen">
Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing The Dark Hands of Anubis (A David Harris and Emma Jackson Mystery Series) by Angela Van Breemen (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Dec 21, 2025 10:24PM · like
Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing Past Life's Revenge: A Paranormal Mystery and Suspense (A David Harris and Emma Jackson Mystery Series, Book 1) by Angela Van Breemen (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Nov 16, 2025 03:04PM · like
Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing Past Life's Revenge: A David Harris and Emma Jackson Mystery by Angela Van Breemen (Goodreads Author)	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Nov 16, 2025 03:04PM · like

Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing

Deep Into the Night's Edge by A.L. Wahdel

Deep Into the Night's Edge: A Water Kascade Novel
by A.L. Wahdel

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I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author/publisher. This review reflects my honest opinion.

This gritty, slow paced crime thriller delivers a gripping ride against the politically charged streets of Toronto and an outlaw biker wh I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from the author/publisher. This review reflects my honest opinion.

This gritty, slow paced crime thriller delivers a gripping ride against the politically charged streets of Toronto and an outlaw biker who steers the plot into serious conflicts.

Centered on Detective Sergeant Water Kascade’s relentless crusade against systemic rot, the narrative transforms a localized protest into a sprawling, high-stakes conspiracy.

The story begins with an explosive momentum when an extremist group's protest at Queen’s Park turns deadly, leaving nineteen casualties in its wake. Kascade is thrust into a high-pressure countdown to uncover the truth. The investigation rapidly expands beyond the initial violence, forcing Kascade to navigate his way through a maze of lies and deception.

The fallout from a public tragedy in the heart of Ontario's government is shielded by the conspirators. Then there are whispers and rumors of criminals themselves becoming the targets of brazen robberies. A sinister network of a corrupt politician is funding the extremism from deep within the establishment and Kascade who seems to be conflicted by the associations he’s developed with superiors and subordinates throughout his career. Being a lone wolf and secretly hiding his true intentions are a metaphor for his confused feelings of betrayal. His actions of making things right are valiant even if it is an outdated narrative. Finding out a close friend has betrayed his trust for a chance at saving herself from cancer is hard to accept but necessary for him to dissolve that friendship for the good of the force.

As Kascade untangles the web, author Wahdel expertly avoids easy resolutions. Instead, every breakthrough shifts the outcome, building a complex scenario where answers only yield deeper, more unsettling questions.

At its core, this is a story about the cost of integrity. Kascade is a compelling, embattled protagonist whose core beliefs are pushed to their absolute limits. The book moves beyond a simple "whodunit" to explore themes of institutional corruption, the manipulation of political extremism, and the blurry line between justice and survival. My final thoughts are that fans of gritty police procedurals and political conspiracies, should find this novel offers a smart, realistic, engaging read. It successfully balances authentic localized tension with an expansive, shifting mystery that will leave readers guessing until the final seconds tick away. Wahdel’s first book laid the foundation for the Kascade series which I expect is in the works. I did enjoy the debut novel just as much as this one. ...more

Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing

Toy Soldiers: Laura Amour Thriller, #3
by David Wickenden

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I thank the author for providing an advanced reader copy of this book.

David Wickenden’s Toy Soldier is a gripping and, at times, deeply disturbing thriller that introduces readers to Laura Armour, a protagonist whose methodical, patient, and resource I thank the author for providing an advanced reader copy of this book.

David Wickenden’s Toy Soldier is a gripping and, at times, deeply disturbing thriller that introduces readers to Laura Armour, a protagonist whose methodical, patient, and resourceful nature quickly becomes apparent.

From the mysterious opening chapter, Wickenden gives us an intriguing glimpse of who Laura is while carefully laying the groundwork for the story to come. His extensive research is evident throughout the novel, particularly in his exploration of child exploitation; a dark subject that he handles with chilling realism. The story forces readers to confront how easily society can overlook or blindly accept serious problems that desperately need to be addressed.

Early in the novel, Laura takes on Lucio De Noia, a man reportedly regarded as a ghost and connected to child exploitation. Her actions establish the kind of character she is: determined, courageous, and unwilling to stand aside when confronted with evil.

Wickenden also uses short chapters, something I particularly appreciate. They keep the story moving and make it easy for readers to pick up the book when time is limited and complete a chapter before putting it down.

The novel takes an even darker turn when Laura confronts a brutal terrorist organization whose members use a distorted interpretation of the Quran to justify acts of terror, robbery, rape, and murder. Her confrontation with L’Animal, a particularly vicious terrorist, becomes both horrifying and intensely personal when Laura is captured and abused. Yet she ultimately escapes and turns the tables on her captor.

Wickenden’s writing is clean, disciplined, and well structured. The novel reads like the work of a professional author whose manuscript has benefited from careful editing.

I have not read the other two Laura Armour novels, but after reading Toy Soldier, I would certainly consider going back to them. This is more than an action thriller; it is thought-provoking, disturbing, and at times deeply moving. Wickenden has created a protagonist who is difficult to forget and a story that stays with you long after you have turned the final page. ...more

Peter Pontsa liked READER VIEWS's review of Sanctity of Freedom: An Action Adventure Mystery (An Inspector William Fox Series):

Sanctity of Freedom by Peter Thomas Pontsa

"Although I read a variety of books in most genres, I have a soft spot for a good espionage thriller, and Sanctity of Freedom: An Inspector William Fox Series by Peter Thomas Pontsa just melted me in a good way. As soon as I started reading this book," Read more of this review »

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Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing

Too Dark for the Light: A Water Kascade Novel
by A.L. Wahdel

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In Too Dark for the Light, A. L. Wahdel delivers a chilling debut that blends police procedural realism with stirring noir and psychological depth. The novel introduces Detective Sergeant Water Kascade, a seasoned Toronto police officer nearing retir ...more

Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing

Riversong
by Rosemary McCracken (Goodreads Author)

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Rosemary McCracken excels at crafting a sprawling cast of suspects, each with believable motives, and Riversong is a strong example of her skill as a mystery writer. The investigation unfolds methodically through interviews, surveillance footage, and Rosemary McCracken excels at crafting a sprawling cast of suspects, each with believable motives, and Riversong is a strong example of her skill as a mystery writer. The investigation unfolds methodically through interviews, surveillance footage, and the careful piecing together of timelines. A subplot involving hidden cameras adds a contemporary edge that feels both timely and unsettling, grounding the mystery firmly in the modern world.

McCracken’s background in journalism shines throughout the novel. The newsroom atmosphere, media dynamics, and procedural details are rendered with authenticity and confidence. Riversong is my first introduction to the Pat Tierney series, and it left a very strong impression. McCracken’s writing style is virtuous, natural, and easy to follow. Her unpretentious finesse kept me intrigued and fully engaged from beginning to end.

The plot revolves around the newspaper world, with Pat Tierney, a financial advisor, drawn into the murder of Monica Lentz, a new client. Monica’s rejected admirer and former lover, Matt Ryder, becomes an unexpected ally as Pat works to uncover the truth. McCracken weaves an intricate plot involving numerous characters and intersecting motives, reminiscent of an Agatha Christie–style mystery, where no one is above suspicion.

One of the novel’s strengths is its vivid portrayal of Toronto. Having grown up in the city myself, I found McCracken’s depiction honest and redolent of a bygone era of daily newspapers and traditional journalism. The setting feels lived-in and real, enhancing the credibility of the story and anchoring the mystery in a recognizable place and culture.

The pacing tightens significantly in the final chapters, as setbacks and near-misses threaten to derail the investigation. These escalating complications heighten the tension and demonstrate McCracken’s control as a storyteller. The suspense builds naturally, rewarding the reader’s patience with a satisfying conclusion.

I was particularly drawn to Matt Ryder’s passion for the wildlife rescue reserve he hoped to build as a legacy for Monica Lentz, a woman portrayed in complex shades, someone you either liked or hated. This emotional thread added depth to the narrative and reinforced the human cost behind the crime.

Overall, Riversong is a well-written, engaging mystery that balances character, setting, and plot with skill. I was unequivocally engaged until the final page and highly recommend this novel, especially to readers who appreciate intelligent mysteries grounded in realistic journalism and richly rendered settings. ...more

Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing

Riversong
by Rosemary McCracken (Goodreads Author)

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1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

Rosemary McCracken excels at crafting a sprawling cast of suspects, each with believable motives, and Riversong is a strong example of her skill as a mystery writer. The investigation unfolds methodically through interviews, surveillance footage, and Rosemary McCracken excels at crafting a sprawling cast of suspects, each with believable motives, and Riversong is a strong example of her skill as a mystery writer. The investigation unfolds methodically through interviews, surveillance footage, and the careful piecing together of timelines. A subplot involving hidden cameras adds a contemporary edge that feels both timely and unsettling, grounding the mystery firmly in the modern world.

McCracken’s background in journalism shines throughout the novel. The newsroom atmosphere, media dynamics, and procedural details are rendered with authenticity and confidence. Riversong is my first introduction to the Pat Tierney series, and it left a very strong impression. McCracken’s writing style is virtuous, natural, and easy to follow. Her unpretentious finesse kept me intrigued and fully engaged from beginning to end.

The plot revolves around the newspaper world, with Pat Tierney, a financial advisor, drawn into the murder of Monica Lentz, a new client. Monica’s rejected admirer and former lover, Matt Ryder, becomes an unexpected ally as Pat works to uncover the truth. McCracken weaves an intricate plot involving numerous characters and intersecting motives, reminiscent of an Agatha Christie–style mystery, where no one is above suspicion.

One of the novel’s strengths is its vivid portrayal of Toronto. Having grown up in the city myself, I found McCracken’s depiction honest and redolent of a bygone era of daily newspapers and traditional journalism. The setting feels lived-in and real, enhancing the credibility of the story and anchoring the mystery in a recognizable place and culture.

The pacing tightens significantly in the final chapters, as setbacks and near-misses threaten to derail the investigation. These escalating complications heighten the tension and demonstrate McCracken’s control as a storyteller. The suspense builds naturally, rewarding the reader’s patience with a satisfying conclusion.

I was particularly drawn to Matt Ryder’s passion for the wildlife rescue reserve he hoped to build as a legacy for Monica Lentz, a woman portrayed in complex shades, someone you either liked or hated. This emotional thread added depth to the narrative and reinforced the human cost behind the crime.

Overall, Riversong is a well-written, engaging mystery that balances character, setting, and plot with skill. I was unequivocally engaged until the final page and highly recommend this novel, especially to readers who appreciate intelligent mysteries grounded in realistic journalism and richly rendered settings. ...more

Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing

The Dark Hands of Anubis by Angela Van Breemen

The Dark Hands of Anubis (A David Harris and Emma Jackson Mystery Series)
by Angela Van Breemen (Goodreads Author)

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Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing

Past Life's Revenge by Angela Van Breemen

Past Life's Revenge: A Paranormal Mystery and Suspense (A David Harris and Emma Jackson Mystery Series, Book 1)
by Angela Van Breemen (Goodreads Author)

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Peter Pontsa rated a book it was amazing

Past Life's Revenge: A David Harris and Emma Jackson Mystery
by Angela Van Breemen (Goodreads Author)

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	Sanctity of Freedom: An Action Adventure Mystery (An Inspector William Fox Series) 4.72 avg rating — 25 ratings — 2 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Outfoxed: An Action Adventure Mystery (An Inspector William Fox Series) 4.54 avg rating — 24 ratings — 5 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
	Measure of Morality: An Action Adventure Mystery (An Inspector William Fox Series) 4.75 avg rating — 4 ratings — 2 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

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