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Swift Vengeance
Months after accomplished journalist Brittany is nearly killed in a motorcycle accident, her body is healing, but her mind has changed. When she begins experiencing the strange, violent visions of someone bent on murder, they lead her to Swift Island, a sleepy LGBTQ+ summer retreat. Toni has wounds of her own to heal. Heartbroken from her breakup with a womanizer she believed she could change, she accepts her aunt Leslie’s invitation to spend time with them on Swift Island and work in their brewpub, the Second Wave. Although consumed with their own lives on the island, when Brittany and Toni meet, their attraction is immediate, but a killer lurks in the shadows of this cozy enclave, and the only way to stop one of them from becoming the next victim is to help Brittany focus on the message of her visions.
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2021
6 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Jean Copeland
16 books46 followersJean Copeland is a writer and English/language arts teacher at an alternative high school in Connecticut. Taking a chance on a second career in her thirties, Jean graduated summa cum laude from Southern Connecticut State University with a BS in English education and an MS in English/creative writing. She has published numerous short fiction and essays online and in print anthologies. In addition to the thrill of watching her students discover their talents in creative writing and poetry, she enjoys the escape of writing, summer decompression by the shore, and good wine and conversation with friends. Organ donation and shelter animal adoption are causes dear to her heart. The Revelation of Beatrice Darby is Jean’s debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
June 3, 2021
Swift Vengeance is a paranormal thriller with a healthy dose of romance.
Months after a motorcycle accident that almost killed her, Brittany starts getting visions, terrifying, bloody visions. As much as she’d like to ignore them, she feels she’s getting them for a reason and follows them to Swift Island, in New England. A few days earlier, another woman came to the island in search of… something. Nursing her broken heart on the island sounded like a wonderful idea when Toni’s aunt Leslie suggested it, and it feels even better when Brittany comes into the Second Wave, the pub Leslie and her wife Alice run. If only Toni was ready for a new relationship… And if only a killer wasn’t watching, waiting for the right time to strike.
I’m going to start with the one aspect I didn’t like so I can focus on everything I loved: I really really really don’t enjoy having to read the bad guy’s thoughts. I know evil exists, I do not want to live it. I would have enjoyed this book a lot more if whatever was going through the villain’s mind had been included in Brittany’s visions. I would have been just as terrified and probably more involved as I wouldn’t have had to keep distancing myself.
Now on to everything I loved. As usual for me, the characters come first. I absolutely loved Brittany, her strength, her will, her doubts, her sense of humour. She’s smart and sexy and it all comes through whenever she’s on the page. I liked Toni a lot too but I had a harder time figuring her out. Her backstory isn’t as clear, I understand her broken heart but I’m not sure about her reactions. That didn’t stop me from liking her, however. And I loved Leslie and Alice, both as individuals and as a couple.
And that’s kinda fantastic because the two main characters and the two almost-main characters already existed in previous books, in different universes. Toni and Brittany were secondary characters by, respectively, Erin Zak and Jackie D, whereas Leslie and Alice hail from Jean Copeland’s The Second Wave. To be honest, I didn’t know any of this before I read the book so don’t worry if, like me, you didn’t read these other books, you’ll still have everything you need in this one to enjoy it. But I love the idea and I love that I can now find out more about all of them, especially Alice and Leslie.
The thriller arc is solid, even though I wasn’t entirely surprised to find out who the baddy was. I loved how Brittany’s visions played out. And I enjoyed the romance tremendously. The characters are at times taken aback by how fast their feelings grow but their chemistry is so obvious, so palpable that it simply feels right. That feeling you get when you’re falling in love that the air you breathe is purer, the sounds louder, the colours brighter? It’s all here.
I’d love to know how the authors worked. I sometimes had the feeling I knew who had written the paragraph I was reading but I could be completely wrong and I like that too.
ARC provided to Les Rêveur for an honest review.
Months after a motorcycle accident that almost killed her, Brittany starts getting visions, terrifying, bloody visions. As much as she’d like to ignore them, she feels she’s getting them for a reason and follows them to Swift Island, in New England. A few days earlier, another woman came to the island in search of… something. Nursing her broken heart on the island sounded like a wonderful idea when Toni’s aunt Leslie suggested it, and it feels even better when Brittany comes into the Second Wave, the pub Leslie and her wife Alice run. If only Toni was ready for a new relationship… And if only a killer wasn’t watching, waiting for the right time to strike.
I’m going to start with the one aspect I didn’t like so I can focus on everything I loved: I really really really don’t enjoy having to read the bad guy’s thoughts. I know evil exists, I do not want to live it. I would have enjoyed this book a lot more if whatever was going through the villain’s mind had been included in Brittany’s visions. I would have been just as terrified and probably more involved as I wouldn’t have had to keep distancing myself.
Now on to everything I loved. As usual for me, the characters come first. I absolutely loved Brittany, her strength, her will, her doubts, her sense of humour. She’s smart and sexy and it all comes through whenever she’s on the page. I liked Toni a lot too but I had a harder time figuring her out. Her backstory isn’t as clear, I understand her broken heart but I’m not sure about her reactions. That didn’t stop me from liking her, however. And I loved Leslie and Alice, both as individuals and as a couple.
And that’s kinda fantastic because the two main characters and the two almost-main characters already existed in previous books, in different universes. Toni and Brittany were secondary characters by, respectively, Erin Zak and Jackie D, whereas Leslie and Alice hail from Jean Copeland’s The Second Wave. To be honest, I didn’t know any of this before I read the book so don’t worry if, like me, you didn’t read these other books, you’ll still have everything you need in this one to enjoy it. But I love the idea and I love that I can now find out more about all of them, especially Alice and Leslie.
The thriller arc is solid, even though I wasn’t entirely surprised to find out who the baddy was. I loved how Brittany’s visions played out. And I enjoyed the romance tremendously. The characters are at times taken aback by how fast their feelings grow but their chemistry is so obvious, so palpable that it simply feels right. That feeling you get when you’re falling in love that the air you breathe is purer, the sounds louder, the colours brighter? It’s all here.
I’d love to know how the authors worked. I sometimes had the feeling I knew who had written the paragraph I was reading but I could be completely wrong and I like that too.
ARC provided to Les Rêveur for an honest review.
May 25, 2021
3.5 stars. I’m always amazed when a book is written by two or in this case three authors, this is no easy feat. This book features several secondary and lead characters from previous books of all three authors. We have Toni from Erin Zak’s “Breaking Down Her Walls”, then there is Brittany from Jackie D’s “Lands End” and there is the couple Leslie and Alice from Jean Copeland’s “The second Wave”. It’s a fun idea to start a book collaboration with some of your favorite characters, but I have to admit that I haven’t read these books, so there might be more to gain there if you have. I had no problem reading this as a standalone though. I was really excited when I read the premise as it has all the ingredients I love (mystery, suspense, paranormal and romance), but I’m sorry to say that it didn’t fully live up to my expectations.
Toni just came out of a bad break-up and decides to spend some time at Swift Island helping out in the pub of her aunts Leslie and Alice. Brittany has recovered from serious head trauma due to a motorcycle accident and while she is physically ok, she experiences visions that show bad things happening at Swift Island. Brittany is not sure whether she’s losing her mind, but she decides to follow her instincts and go to Swift Island to investigate.
Brittany has to figure out what the visions mean and who it is she experiences in her visions. The mystery works towards a great ending, which had me glued to the book. Unfortunately, the build-up was a bit slow and there was actually not that much happening. I also figured out who the villain was pretty fast, but I don’t think this was intended to be a big secret.
I liked all the characters, Toni and Brittany clearly have some baggage to overcome, but it is easy to see that they are meant to be together and Leslie and Alice are their shining examples of what a perfect couple looks like. One drawback in the romance for me though was that one of the MC’s acts like a complete ass during the dark moment and, yes, she has some reasons but were they justified? To be honest, I don’t think I could have so easily forgiven her for that.
The book is written from 4 POVs, those of Toni, Brittany and Leslie in the third person, and that of the villain in the first person in diary style. I was not a fan of the villain POV, all info and emotions that are given through this POV were also covered in the storyline and through the visions, so I could have lived without this POV. In fact, during the entire book I thought there was quite a lot of repetition and the story dragged from time to time, so I think the book could have benefited from another round of editing to shorten it. Besides this, the book was easy to read and I enjoyed the small variations in writing style which added to the charm of the book.
I think this book had the potential for more, but I would still classify it as an above average read, it starts a bit slow, but I liked how the mystery came to an end.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Toni just came out of a bad break-up and decides to spend some time at Swift Island helping out in the pub of her aunts Leslie and Alice. Brittany has recovered from serious head trauma due to a motorcycle accident and while she is physically ok, she experiences visions that show bad things happening at Swift Island. Brittany is not sure whether she’s losing her mind, but she decides to follow her instincts and go to Swift Island to investigate.
Brittany has to figure out what the visions mean and who it is she experiences in her visions. The mystery works towards a great ending, which had me glued to the book. Unfortunately, the build-up was a bit slow and there was actually not that much happening. I also figured out who the villain was pretty fast, but I don’t think this was intended to be a big secret.
I liked all the characters, Toni and Brittany clearly have some baggage to overcome, but it is easy to see that they are meant to be together and Leslie and Alice are their shining examples of what a perfect couple looks like. One drawback in the romance for me though was that one of the MC’s acts like a complete ass during the dark moment and, yes, she has some reasons but were they justified? To be honest, I don’t think I could have so easily forgiven her for that.
The book is written from 4 POVs, those of Toni, Brittany and Leslie in the third person, and that of the villain in the first person in diary style. I was not a fan of the villain POV, all info and emotions that are given through this POV were also covered in the storyline and through the visions, so I could have lived without this POV. In fact, during the entire book I thought there was quite a lot of repetition and the story dragged from time to time, so I think the book could have benefited from another round of editing to shorten it. Besides this, the book was easy to read and I enjoyed the small variations in writing style which added to the charm of the book.
I think this book had the potential for more, but I would still classify it as an above average read, it starts a bit slow, but I liked how the mystery came to an end.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2021
2.5 Stars
Swift Vengeance is a collaborative effort between Jean Copeland, Jackie D, and Erin Zak. It’s a suspenseful thriller romance with a side of paranormal visions one of the mains starts having. Also, worth noting, the two main characters and side characters first appeared in the authors previous books. Brittany comes from Jackie D’s "Lands End." Toni is in Erin Zak’s "Breaking Down Her Walls" and Alice and Leslie have their own story in "The Second Wave." Reading those probably adds more history to this story but I had no problem and never felt like I was missing out on anything by not reading those first.
Brittany is involved in a motorcycle crash that leaves her with a traumatic brain injury and opens her up to visions that she has no control of. These visions ultimately lead her to Swift Island where she knows something dangerous is going to occur and it’s up to her to stop it. Right after arriving she meets Toni. Toni is on Swift Island visiting her aunt Leslie after being dumped by her fiancé.
I found this to be an interesting read. It started out great (if a little slow) with lots of potential and sort of devolved about halfway in. Let me start with the thriller aspect. This has sporadic chapters that are journal entries from the killer, so we get their viewpoint on things. While I enjoyed the end, the build up took a long time to begin. I kept feeling like I was just waiting for something to happen and not much ever did. It’s apparent things are escalating mentally from the journal entries for the them but they never actually do anything. They just kind of sit and wait for months? Why? It never made sense why we had to wait so long for anything to happen. Then the motivation behind everything seemed a little far-fetched and it was hard for me to buy into it.
Onto the romance side. I’ll admit I liked it at first, I liked both Brittany and Toni. Brittany is a relatable character. She’s not sure if she really believes in these visions or if she’s going crazy. She heads to Swift Island to hopefully get answers so she can move on. Toni, even though she’s heartbroken and clearly has trust issues, I still found her to be likable and was rooting for them as a couple at first. However, after a while it was apparent to me that Toni was judgmental and really immature. And it was truly hard for me to forgive her for her actions toward the end. I’m not sure I ever really did honestly. By the end I was no longer invested in their relationship.
I recommend reading other reviews. Others seemed to enjoy this quite a bit more than I did.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Swift Vengeance is a collaborative effort between Jean Copeland, Jackie D, and Erin Zak. It’s a suspenseful thriller romance with a side of paranormal visions one of the mains starts having. Also, worth noting, the two main characters and side characters first appeared in the authors previous books. Brittany comes from Jackie D’s "Lands End." Toni is in Erin Zak’s "Breaking Down Her Walls" and Alice and Leslie have their own story in "The Second Wave." Reading those probably adds more history to this story but I had no problem and never felt like I was missing out on anything by not reading those first.
Brittany is involved in a motorcycle crash that leaves her with a traumatic brain injury and opens her up to visions that she has no control of. These visions ultimately lead her to Swift Island where she knows something dangerous is going to occur and it’s up to her to stop it. Right after arriving she meets Toni. Toni is on Swift Island visiting her aunt Leslie after being dumped by her fiancé.
I found this to be an interesting read. It started out great (if a little slow) with lots of potential and sort of devolved about halfway in. Let me start with the thriller aspect. This has sporadic chapters that are journal entries from the killer, so we get their viewpoint on things. While I enjoyed the end, the build up took a long time to begin. I kept feeling like I was just waiting for something to happen and not much ever did. It’s apparent things are escalating mentally from the journal entries for the them but they never actually do anything. They just kind of sit and wait for months? Why? It never made sense why we had to wait so long for anything to happen. Then the motivation behind everything seemed a little far-fetched and it was hard for me to buy into it.
Onto the romance side. I’ll admit I liked it at first, I liked both Brittany and Toni. Brittany is a relatable character. She’s not sure if she really believes in these visions or if she’s going crazy. She heads to Swift Island to hopefully get answers so she can move on. Toni, even though she’s heartbroken and clearly has trust issues, I still found her to be likable and was rooting for them as a couple at first. However, after a while it was apparent to me that Toni was judgmental and really immature. And it was truly hard for me to forgive her for her actions toward the end. I’m not sure I ever really did honestly. By the end I was no longer invested in their relationship.
I recommend reading other reviews. Others seemed to enjoy this quite a bit more than I did.
I received an ARC from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2021
Months after a motorcycle accident that almost took her life Brittany is experiencing headaches accompanied by mysterious visions. She can’t explain it so per her aunts advice she follows the visions to swift island where she meets Toni. Toni recently heartbroken has no intention of that happening again and is weary when faced with Brittany’s charm.
I didn’t love this book but I didn’t hate it.
Characters- they didn’t feel fully developed. We get more of Brittany’s backstory than Toni’s but even with that I failed to connect with her. There was nothing that made me feel sorry for this woman or wanted her to be happy. Same goes for Toni. These characters just felt so... empty? There was almost no personality and that caused such a problem with this book for me. Toni is described as heartbroken from her ex Penn, but that doesn’t show. She seems like every other commitment fearing woman.
Brittany’s accident is described as this near death experience where she accepted the possibility of death but there’s no lasting effects. No broken bones. No cast. No scars. Nothing.
I don’t know if it was the author’s intention to present the flaw of Toni being such a self centered person but that just added to me not wanting her and Brittany together. I mean- who kicks someone out in the middle of a hurricane? Especially someone they thought was mentally unwell.
Plot- the author presented a pretty solid thriller. I liked it. They managed to have me wondering who was the suspect or if they even existed. A pretty compelling case.
Grammar- the writing was choppy at times but now much to be a problem and the dialogue was very bland. Nothing special.
3 stars because even though I could not connect with this characters someone else totally can. One less star because that was my problem.
Book had so much potential to be epic but fell slightly in the execution. Seems as though the author focused too much on the thriller section than the character development and build.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the arc in return for an honest review!
I didn’t love this book but I didn’t hate it.
Characters- they didn’t feel fully developed. We get more of Brittany’s backstory than Toni’s but even with that I failed to connect with her. There was nothing that made me feel sorry for this woman or wanted her to be happy. Same goes for Toni. These characters just felt so... empty? There was almost no personality and that caused such a problem with this book for me. Toni is described as heartbroken from her ex Penn, but that doesn’t show. She seems like every other commitment fearing woman.
Brittany’s accident is described as this near death experience where she accepted the possibility of death but there’s no lasting effects. No broken bones. No cast. No scars. Nothing.
I don’t know if it was the author’s intention to present the flaw of Toni being such a self centered person but that just added to me not wanting her and Brittany together. I mean- who kicks someone out in the middle of a hurricane? Especially someone they thought was mentally unwell.
Plot- the author presented a pretty solid thriller. I liked it. They managed to have me wondering who was the suspect or if they even existed. A pretty compelling case.
Grammar- the writing was choppy at times but now much to be a problem and the dialogue was very bland. Nothing special.
3 stars because even though I could not connect with this characters someone else totally can. One less star because that was my problem.
Book had so much potential to be epic but fell slightly in the execution. Seems as though the author focused too much on the thriller section than the character development and build.
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the arc in return for an honest review!
June 3, 2021
Thrillers are my go to happy place so the premise of having one character not only develop an ability to randomly step into the mind of a sociopath bent on revenge, but also see through their eyes potential targets for their rage, I was all in. Collaborative writing must be a challenge. I’ve read books by all of these authors before and was impressed with the seamless way this book flowed. There were moments when I guessed who might be penning the scene but then again, I didn’t realize these characters were featured in previous books by the authors. No wonder the brew pub called The Second Wave sounded familiar.
I wish I could say I loved this story but it played into some of my pet peeves, the biggest one being lack of communication. I know the romance side of romantic suspense often uses this device to bring a temporary end to a budding relationship but in Swift Vengeance, Brittany withholds her visions of lurking danger putting the people she has come to save at risk. Fingers can be pointed at Toni, so loaded down with bad breakup baggage Brittany is reluctant to scare her off with her visions. Alice and Leslie also skim over or ignore clues making this an at times frustrating read.
The upside, and there were positives which kept me reading, included the setting of Swift Island and the comfort Alice and Leslie and their brew pub offered to both Toni and Brittany. My favourite character was Madge the Medium who reads tarot cards for Brittany and was the only other person on the island who grasped the danger they all faced. She added a touch of humour needed when the going got tough. The dramatic reveal of the character seeking revenge was telegraphed early but entertaining and done well.
This book is listed as romance and not suspense so those readers who prefer the former may like this book more than I did.
3.5 stars
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
I wish I could say I loved this story but it played into some of my pet peeves, the biggest one being lack of communication. I know the romance side of romantic suspense often uses this device to bring a temporary end to a budding relationship but in Swift Vengeance, Brittany withholds her visions of lurking danger putting the people she has come to save at risk. Fingers can be pointed at Toni, so loaded down with bad breakup baggage Brittany is reluctant to scare her off with her visions. Alice and Leslie also skim over or ignore clues making this an at times frustrating read.
The upside, and there were positives which kept me reading, included the setting of Swift Island and the comfort Alice and Leslie and their brew pub offered to both Toni and Brittany. My favourite character was Madge the Medium who reads tarot cards for Brittany and was the only other person on the island who grasped the danger they all faced. She added a touch of humour needed when the going got tough. The dramatic reveal of the character seeking revenge was telegraphed early but entertaining and done well.
This book is listed as romance and not suspense so those readers who prefer the former may like this book more than I did.
3.5 stars
ARC received with thanks from publisher via NetGalley for review.
June 8, 2021
Review of Swift Vengeance by Jean Copeland, Jackie D. and Erin Zak
Normally you find books co-written by two authors but a collaboration of three sounds like an idea born from a joke or a dare that could either go very well or very wrong. Fortunately for lesfic crime fans, Swift Vengeance worked really well.
After surviving an almost fatal motorcycle accident, journalist Brittany starts having visions of something evil about to happen in Swift Island, a queer summer retreat. Feeling the urge to find answers to her questions, she travels there and meets Toni, a woman living with her aunts who is recovering from a nasty breakup. Their mutual attraction is undeniable but there is a serial killer on the island who’s going after their next prey…
This was an entertaining crime/intrigue book with a good balance of action, mystery and romance. I’m hardly an expert in the genre, so I’m not sure if this book will work for the real fans of mystery, but this novel kept me turning pages and some parts got me to the edge of my seat. To draw a comparison, if you’ve read British lesfic crime author Cari Hunter, this is a lighter and definitely less gruesome type of book. Swift Vengeance is closer to a cozy mystery. I had my suspicions about who the perpetrator was but it wasn’t very obvious.
The main characters Brittany and Toni, plus Toni’s aunts Leslie and Alice, come from some of the authors’ previous books. Toni is a shop attendant in Zak’s Breaking down her walls, Brittany is one of the mains’ occasional lover in Land’s End by Jackie D. and Leslie and Alice are the main characters from Copeland’s The Second Wave. I thought this idea of intertwining characters from different books was very clever and a great way to engage readers with other novels.
There’s a little bit of a paranormal plot that is central to the story but despite that, this couldn’t be considered a paranormal book. The story is told from different points of view: Brittany, Toni, Leslie and the serial killer. The latter is told in first person and adds a creepy mood to the story. There’s a balance between mystery, action and romance so the love story has quite a bit of space in the book. Both main characters are healing from old wounds and their relationship is complicated but, at the same time, they have great chemistry together. Leslie and Alice are a cute old couple who bring support and understanding to the younger women. The landscape of an isolated island with a rough climate sets out a perfect background to the mystery.
Overall, an enjoyable crime/mystery with a heavy dose of romance. A very good collaboration between three seasoned authors. 4 stars.
Normally you find books co-written by two authors but a collaboration of three sounds like an idea born from a joke or a dare that could either go very well or very wrong. Fortunately for lesfic crime fans, Swift Vengeance worked really well.
After surviving an almost fatal motorcycle accident, journalist Brittany starts having visions of something evil about to happen in Swift Island, a queer summer retreat. Feeling the urge to find answers to her questions, she travels there and meets Toni, a woman living with her aunts who is recovering from a nasty breakup. Their mutual attraction is undeniable but there is a serial killer on the island who’s going after their next prey…
This was an entertaining crime/intrigue book with a good balance of action, mystery and romance. I’m hardly an expert in the genre, so I’m not sure if this book will work for the real fans of mystery, but this novel kept me turning pages and some parts got me to the edge of my seat. To draw a comparison, if you’ve read British lesfic crime author Cari Hunter, this is a lighter and definitely less gruesome type of book. Swift Vengeance is closer to a cozy mystery. I had my suspicions about who the perpetrator was but it wasn’t very obvious.
The main characters Brittany and Toni, plus Toni’s aunts Leslie and Alice, come from some of the authors’ previous books. Toni is a shop attendant in Zak’s Breaking down her walls, Brittany is one of the mains’ occasional lover in Land’s End by Jackie D. and Leslie and Alice are the main characters from Copeland’s The Second Wave. I thought this idea of intertwining characters from different books was very clever and a great way to engage readers with other novels.
There’s a little bit of a paranormal plot that is central to the story but despite that, this couldn’t be considered a paranormal book. The story is told from different points of view: Brittany, Toni, Leslie and the serial killer. The latter is told in first person and adds a creepy mood to the story. There’s a balance between mystery, action and romance so the love story has quite a bit of space in the book. Both main characters are healing from old wounds and their relationship is complicated but, at the same time, they have great chemistry together. Leslie and Alice are a cute old couple who bring support and understanding to the younger women. The landscape of an isolated island with a rough climate sets out a perfect background to the mystery.
Overall, an enjoyable crime/mystery with a heavy dose of romance. A very good collaboration between three seasoned authors. 4 stars.
June 7, 2021
I love a good psychological thriller, especially if it comes with a lovely romance. Add in a touch of the paranormal and a really creepy murderer, and you have Swift Vengeance by Jean Copeland, Jackie D., and Erin Zak.
There are actually two lesbian couples in this novel. The two main characters are Brittany and Toni. Brittany is recovering from a motorcycle accident that almost killed her, and Toni is trying to get over the trauma of her girlfriend leaving her. The other couple in the story is Toni’s aunt Leslie and her partner Alice who have reconnected after many years apart. Leslie and Alice now run a pub called Second Wave on Swift Island, an LGBTQ+ summer vacation spot. All four women end up meeting at the pub, but there is another person on Swift Island that is there to kill someone…and Brittany seems to be connected to this killer in some paranormal fashion.
This tale is definitely a page turner. The three authors did an excellent job of creating a story filled with tension, psychological thrills, and danger. Then they expertly wove not one, but two love stories into the book. All of the characters are well-developed, and the setting is gorgeous. I want to go to a vacation spot like Swift Island, minus the killer of course.
The way the story is written, we get to see inside the heads of not only Brittany and Toni, but the murderer as well. I’m not sure which author wrote the killer’s thoughts, but whoever it was, they did a magnificent job. I had chills reading those sections. It really showcased the hatred, danger, and insanity inside this person.
If you are looking for a dramatic, dangerous, tension-filled read with not one but two romantic couples and a touch of the paranormal, then Swift Vengeance might be the book for you. I enjoyed it, chills and all.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
There are actually two lesbian couples in this novel. The two main characters are Brittany and Toni. Brittany is recovering from a motorcycle accident that almost killed her, and Toni is trying to get over the trauma of her girlfriend leaving her. The other couple in the story is Toni’s aunt Leslie and her partner Alice who have reconnected after many years apart. Leslie and Alice now run a pub called Second Wave on Swift Island, an LGBTQ+ summer vacation spot. All four women end up meeting at the pub, but there is another person on Swift Island that is there to kill someone…and Brittany seems to be connected to this killer in some paranormal fashion.
This tale is definitely a page turner. The three authors did an excellent job of creating a story filled with tension, psychological thrills, and danger. Then they expertly wove not one, but two love stories into the book. All of the characters are well-developed, and the setting is gorgeous. I want to go to a vacation spot like Swift Island, minus the killer of course.
The way the story is written, we get to see inside the heads of not only Brittany and Toni, but the murderer as well. I’m not sure which author wrote the killer’s thoughts, but whoever it was, they did a magnificent job. I had chills reading those sections. It really showcased the hatred, danger, and insanity inside this person.
If you are looking for a dramatic, dangerous, tension-filled read with not one but two romantic couples and a touch of the paranormal, then Swift Vengeance might be the book for you. I enjoyed it, chills and all.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
June 9, 2021
This book is like the best part of each author in one thrilling book. I realised that these authors played to their strengths and together created one hell of a story. Jackie D’s chilling and exciting storyline, Jean Copeland’s character development and fun dialogue and Erin Zak’s romance and chemistry skills. I was still dizzy a day later after devouring this to 3 am.
I recently did a Podcast with these authors (The Weekly Wine Down), and I learned a lot about the background of how this book came to life. On the second reading of the book last night, I realised that after knowing how the authors wrote the book, there were small signs in the sections that they all wrote separately, and I think that made me love it more. I’ll post the link to the Podcast below.
I loved that the authors brought characters from their previous works. That was really fun and was like a little update, and when someone like me who loves epilogues so much gets more from books that I love, then it’s like a big hug. Kudos ladies!
For me, the romance between Toni and Brittany had me so invested. And I just felt so taken by them both. There was some genuine swoon happening with all the romance and them falling for each other. A few times, I almost forgot a murderer was lurking in the background. Then boom, the scary, twisted chapter would happen, and I’d be back to terrified for these characters.
I will say this knowing what I know from the inner thoughts of the serial killer and the reasons they wanted to hurt someone really can chill you to the bone. But then feeling sorry for said murderer because of the gruesome things that happened to them as a child… Well that stays with you for days. It still makes me shiver.
Jude hit the nail on the head with the character chemistry! The only thing I’d add is the sex scenes are hot, and even I was left a little hot under the collar!
This book has a little bit of everything. It was amazing to go between the psychological thriller aspect, the epic romance, and the sexiest of sex scenes. It was a rollercoaster ride. Go grab a copy and enjoy this Scary Rom-Com (Thanks, Stacey)!!!
I recently did a Podcast with these authors (The Weekly Wine Down), and I learned a lot about the background of how this book came to life. On the second reading of the book last night, I realised that after knowing how the authors wrote the book, there were small signs in the sections that they all wrote separately, and I think that made me love it more. I’ll post the link to the Podcast below.
I loved that the authors brought characters from their previous works. That was really fun and was like a little update, and when someone like me who loves epilogues so much gets more from books that I love, then it’s like a big hug. Kudos ladies!
For me, the romance between Toni and Brittany had me so invested. And I just felt so taken by them both. There was some genuine swoon happening with all the romance and them falling for each other. A few times, I almost forgot a murderer was lurking in the background. Then boom, the scary, twisted chapter would happen, and I’d be back to terrified for these characters.
I will say this knowing what I know from the inner thoughts of the serial killer and the reasons they wanted to hurt someone really can chill you to the bone. But then feeling sorry for said murderer because of the gruesome things that happened to them as a child… Well that stays with you for days. It still makes me shiver.
Jude hit the nail on the head with the character chemistry! The only thing I’d add is the sex scenes are hot, and even I was left a little hot under the collar!
This book has a little bit of everything. It was amazing to go between the psychological thriller aspect, the epic romance, and the sexiest of sex scenes. It was a rollercoaster ride. Go grab a copy and enjoy this Scary Rom-Com (Thanks, Stacey)!!!
July 30, 2021
3 great authors in one paranormal/ thriller book!
I've given Swift Vengeance a 4 star.
The story was unique, it was different from what I've read in the past, it kept me turning the pages. The character have real chemistry and they were all well-liked. ( apart from the bad dude, he was a piece of sh*t, but oddly found myself addicted to his character).
It would be great if this book was the first of a series..... hint hint!
Journalist Brittany is almost killed in a motorcycle accident, her body is still healing, her mind is different. She suddenly starts having odd, violent visions about murder, which sends her to Swift Island... a small LGBTQ + summer retreat.
Toni is still healing from her own wounds. She left heartbroken from her breakup with a womanizer that she thought could change. Aunt Leslie invites her to Swift Island to help work in the brewpub, the second wave while she 'finds her feet'/
Although consumed with their own lives on the island, when Brittany and Toni meet, their attraction is immediate but a killer lurks in the shadows, and the only way to stop one of them from becoming the next victim is to help Brittany focus on the message of her visions
I've given Swift Vengeance a 4 star.
The story was unique, it was different from what I've read in the past, it kept me turning the pages. The character have real chemistry and they were all well-liked. ( apart from the bad dude, he was a piece of sh*t, but oddly found myself addicted to his character).
It would be great if this book was the first of a series..... hint hint!
Journalist Brittany is almost killed in a motorcycle accident, her body is still healing, her mind is different. She suddenly starts having odd, violent visions about murder, which sends her to Swift Island... a small LGBTQ + summer retreat.
Toni is still healing from her own wounds. She left heartbroken from her breakup with a womanizer that she thought could change. Aunt Leslie invites her to Swift Island to help work in the brewpub, the second wave while she 'finds her feet'/
Although consumed with their own lives on the island, when Brittany and Toni meet, their attraction is immediate but a killer lurks in the shadows, and the only way to stop one of them from becoming the next victim is to help Brittany focus on the message of her visions
May 28, 2021
In this collaborative book, we meet characters from previous books by the authors. Namely, Erin Zak’s Breaking Down Her Walls, Jackie D’s Lands End, and Jean Copeland’s The Second Wave, I haven't read any of these, and it didn't bother me too much. I think you'd get a bit more background into their stories, especially the characters from The Second Wave, Alice and Leslie, as they are the main characters in that book. looking back I might have enjoyed reading the other three books before I started on this one. Although this is certainly a standalone story, I just felt like I was missing something at times. This might also be because the book didn't really click for me, who is to say.
Leslie is married to Alice and they have a bar on Swift Island, Leslie's niece Toni has suffered a breakup and is coming to stay with them to heal. Brittany is recovering from a motorcycle accident when she starts getting visions. Not one to believe them so easily she does follow them when urged by her aunt Penny. Her visions take her to Swift Island where she meets Toni and her aunts. Toni's aunts start playing matchmaker immediately. Brittany can't shake her visions and can't make sense of all the violence, rage and hatred she feels through them. She has to find out what will happen and to who, while she is also falling in love with Toni. The mystery of the books works to a pretty good ending, even though you figure out pretty early on who the villain is, you still want to keep reading.
The book is written from several POVs and there is one I could have certainly done without first-person villain chapters. They felt repetitive and for me didn't really add anything to the story, aside from so very descriptive murders, lots of fun for a visual thinker like myself... All the characters are pretty likable, but it does make me wonder if it is all a bit too good to be true. I know it's fiction, don't get me wrong, but there are some things that seem like they were just glossed over. For instance, Brittany has nightmares about her accident when we start in the book, but when she starts chasing her visions they disappear, all of her baggage seems to disappear and her only issues seem to be the visions? No... And Toni, she is just so stuck in her own mind and has a shit ton of baggage as well but doesn't deal with it, in my opinion, she overreacts and everything is easily forgiven because of her past? I'm sorry, but also no for me here... And while Brittany is chasing her vision, and you already know who the villain is and she doesn't, nothing really happens, the story just hobbles along. These things on top of some continuity issues I found made me enjoy the book a little less. I think some of it comes from having three authors work on a book, if you think about it what these three turned out is actually pretty good, but it could have been so much more.
A good effort, enjoyable enough read, but it just doesn't work 100% for me 3.25 stars
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
Leslie is married to Alice and they have a bar on Swift Island, Leslie's niece Toni has suffered a breakup and is coming to stay with them to heal. Brittany is recovering from a motorcycle accident when she starts getting visions. Not one to believe them so easily she does follow them when urged by her aunt Penny. Her visions take her to Swift Island where she meets Toni and her aunts. Toni's aunts start playing matchmaker immediately. Brittany can't shake her visions and can't make sense of all the violence, rage and hatred she feels through them. She has to find out what will happen and to who, while she is also falling in love with Toni. The mystery of the books works to a pretty good ending, even though you figure out pretty early on who the villain is, you still want to keep reading.
The book is written from several POVs and there is one I could have certainly done without first-person villain chapters. They felt repetitive and for me didn't really add anything to the story, aside from so very descriptive murders, lots of fun for a visual thinker like myself... All the characters are pretty likable, but it does make me wonder if it is all a bit too good to be true. I know it's fiction, don't get me wrong, but there are some things that seem like they were just glossed over. For instance, Brittany has nightmares about her accident when we start in the book, but when she starts chasing her visions they disappear, all of her baggage seems to disappear and her only issues seem to be the visions? No... And Toni, she is just so stuck in her own mind and has a shit ton of baggage as well but doesn't deal with it, in my opinion, she overreacts and everything is easily forgiven because of her past? I'm sorry, but also no for me here... And while Brittany is chasing her vision, and you already know who the villain is and she doesn't, nothing really happens, the story just hobbles along. These things on top of some continuity issues I found made me enjoy the book a little less. I think some of it comes from having three authors work on a book, if you think about it what these three turned out is actually pretty good, but it could have been so much more.
A good effort, enjoyable enough read, but it just doesn't work 100% for me 3.25 stars
*ARC received in exchange for a voluntary and honest review*
August 1, 2021
I really enjoyed the first three quarters of the book. The mystery of the murderous person keeps you on your toes, and when it all unravels... it was pretty awesome. I really empathised with Britt, and think she's such a great understanding and accepting character. Toni, on the other hand, I did like her character to an extent... the whole punishing someone for the mistakes and actions of another is not cool. There was a lot of talking at the end and it kinda brought the book down, but Britt and Toni getting their HEA makes up for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2021
I wish I had better things to say about this novel. It honestly had the makings of a great book. Suspense are one of my favorite reads, but this one came up short. There was a lot of dwelling in problems, cyclical thinking and repetition.
The two MCs meet on an island off the coast of New England. They are there to heal from various wounds of the body and soul. Their interaction is sweet and sincere, and progresses nicely. One of the MCs, Brittney, has developed something of a sixth sense which forebodes danger for both the other MC, Toni and her two aunts. The story progresses as Brittney try’s to solve the plight of a psychopathic killer prior to any danger taking place.
At one point Brittney informs Toni that she has visions and it didn’t sit so well with Toni. She throws a bit of an irrational hissy fit and kicks Brittney out on her butt with no where to go during a hurricane. Of course there were reasons, but all of them seemed a little far fetched. The breakdown in their relationship seemed melodramatic to me and just a little too forced. On the other had, the plot was great. It had a lot of potential and I could see how others might really like it.
The two MCs meet on an island off the coast of New England. They are there to heal from various wounds of the body and soul. Their interaction is sweet and sincere, and progresses nicely. One of the MCs, Brittney, has developed something of a sixth sense which forebodes danger for both the other MC, Toni and her two aunts. The story progresses as Brittney try’s to solve the plight of a psychopathic killer prior to any danger taking place.
At one point Brittney informs Toni that she has visions and it didn’t sit so well with Toni. She throws a bit of an irrational hissy fit and kicks Brittney out on her butt with no where to go during a hurricane. Of course there were reasons, but all of them seemed a little far fetched. The breakdown in their relationship seemed melodramatic to me and just a little too forced. On the other had, the plot was great. It had a lot of potential and I could see how others might really like it.
July 28, 2021
3,5 stars
It was decent. Definitely figured it out way too quickly and then had to wait pretty long for the characters to catch up, but it was still well written.
I can't say I'm generally a fan of inexplicable psychic powers or other paranormal stuff in my crime-solving stories, but this one wasn't half bad.
It was decent. Definitely figured it out way too quickly and then had to wait pretty long for the characters to catch up, but it was still well written.
I can't say I'm generally a fan of inexplicable psychic powers or other paranormal stuff in my crime-solving stories, but this one wasn't half bad.
May 17, 2021
Entertaining and suspenseful, romantic thriller. I was blown away by this novel which manages to balance a stalking serial killer with a budding light romance. Newspaper writer Brittany is in a horrible motorcycle accident. After recovering for almost a year she is experiencing visions of being in someone else's mind. Her aunt tells her she has the family gift of sight and she must figure out what to do with the visions. She goes cross country to Swift Island and a small resort town where she meets Toni and her two aunts. The killer is also there.
The romance between Brittany and Toni is sweet and slow going. Brittany has been through a bad break up and is visiting her aunts to recover and work in their brewpub, The Second Wave. There are bike rides, dinner dates and walks along the beach. They take their time getting to know each other before feelings heat up. The aunts, Alice and Leslie are delightful with their loving support, matchmaking and own deep backstory. The tension ratchets up as the killer realizes someone else is in their mind.
Brittany is trying to balance her fact driven mind and accept the visions are real. Toni is recently burned so is slow to trust in her new feelings. Both characters were great and felt real in their actions. I appreciate the authors being able to keep me in suspense for so long as to the identity of the killer. This is for anyone who enjoys suspenseful novels with a good love story. Thank you NetGalley and Bold Stokes Books, Inc. for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
The romance between Brittany and Toni is sweet and slow going. Brittany has been through a bad break up and is visiting her aunts to recover and work in their brewpub, The Second Wave. There are bike rides, dinner dates and walks along the beach. They take their time getting to know each other before feelings heat up. The aunts, Alice and Leslie are delightful with their loving support, matchmaking and own deep backstory. The tension ratchets up as the killer realizes someone else is in their mind.
Brittany is trying to balance her fact driven mind and accept the visions are real. Toni is recently burned so is slow to trust in her new feelings. Both characters were great and felt real in their actions. I appreciate the authors being able to keep me in suspense for so long as to the identity of the killer. This is for anyone who enjoys suspenseful novels with a good love story. Thank you NetGalley and Bold Stokes Books, Inc. for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2021
Brittany is almost killed in a bike accident. Months later she start to have these visions, she can feel the darkness by whoever it is she can sense. So when one of her visions mentions the name of an island she travels there because she feels someone is in danger and she needs to save them. She meets Toni who is a bar tender living with her aunts whilst recovering from heart break. The pull between the two women is so strong almost love at first sight. But the longer Brittany spends eith Toni and her aunts the longer she is certain the person she needs to protect
I went into this book with absolutely no idea what it was about and when I realised it was about physic power but I was pleasantly surprised!!
Both of our leading ladies are recovering from serious heart ache. Brittany has had such a life change with her accident and no longer feels like herself. She arrives on swift Island almost with zero hope that she's actually really physic because she never was and she never believed in such things.
Toni has been dumped by her fiancé, she had run off with her and found herself dumped and alone in a city she didn't know. So she has moved in with her super trendy aunts to heal. She is a mess and last thing she expected was for Brittany to walk into her life.
This book is a great mystery which takes the reader on an unexpected journey. I managed to feel every emotions throughout.
Also the LGBTQ+ elements of swift isand is amazing I have never read a book that so openly talks about lesbian relationships with no bias or judgement or making it into soft porn. if you are interested in books written about the community then this is it!! I want to move go swift Island as it is known as the ldsbian Island!
All in all I just loved this book. The mystery element is written so well actually the whole book is written really well. It's so intriguing. I managed to get through it in one sit in. I loved it! It's one of these a good review could spoil the entire book, so this is as best as I can do. But i will say this is one of my favourite books of 2021.
Thanks to netgalley, the author and publishers for the advanced digital copy in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
I went into this book with absolutely no idea what it was about and when I realised it was about physic power but I was pleasantly surprised!!
Both of our leading ladies are recovering from serious heart ache. Brittany has had such a life change with her accident and no longer feels like herself. She arrives on swift Island almost with zero hope that she's actually really physic because she never was and she never believed in such things.
Toni has been dumped by her fiancé, she had run off with her and found herself dumped and alone in a city she didn't know. So she has moved in with her super trendy aunts to heal. She is a mess and last thing she expected was for Brittany to walk into her life.
This book is a great mystery which takes the reader on an unexpected journey. I managed to feel every emotions throughout.
Also the LGBTQ+ elements of swift isand is amazing I have never read a book that so openly talks about lesbian relationships with no bias or judgement or making it into soft porn. if you are interested in books written about the community then this is it!! I want to move go swift Island as it is known as the ldsbian Island!
All in all I just loved this book. The mystery element is written so well actually the whole book is written really well. It's so intriguing. I managed to get through it in one sit in. I loved it! It's one of these a good review could spoil the entire book, so this is as best as I can do. But i will say this is one of my favourite books of 2021.
Thanks to netgalley, the author and publishers for the advanced digital copy in exchange for my fair and honest opinions.
June 30, 2021
I started this wondering how it worked with three writers? Did they do a chapter each, did one write and others rewrite, did they each have a character? I’d got about ten pages in and stopped wondering as I was swept up in the story. This is a crime novel with many layers and good character development - both the main characters and the ancillary background ones. The romance is will they, won’t they but it feels “real” as each woman struggles with their baggage and secrets. Brittany has survived a near fatal accident but as a result now gets “visions”, and Toni has just been dumped by the woman she thought would be the love of her life. They both pitch up on Swift Island and help each other through their “healing”.
The island, it’s inhabitants and the pub/diner run by Toni’s aunts are all great parts of the narrative with the island and it’s idiosyncrasies almost another character in the story. The book is well written and seamless and the end is satisfying if a little beyond belief. This is fiction after all and it is good storytelling.
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.
The island, it’s inhabitants and the pub/diner run by Toni’s aunts are all great parts of the narrative with the island and it’s idiosyncrasies almost another character in the story. The book is well written and seamless and the end is satisfying if a little beyond belief. This is fiction after all and it is good storytelling.
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley in return for an honest review.
February 24, 2022
‘Swift Vengeance’ is the product of three incredibly talented writers who have pooled their individual strengths into an intriguing and original plotline.
Brittany is a journalist still healing from a terrible motorcycle accident and Toni is still reeling from a broken heart; both women seek solace on Swift Island. Since her accident Brittany has been having visions of violent actions and is drawn to the Island in the belief she can find the person she is explicitly linked with. Toni feels as though she is running from the humiliation of a broken down relationship with someone she knew was bad news; her aunt and wife have made a wonderful life and business and so feels like the perfect place to escape to.
These three writers are known for creating excellent chemistry between their characters and this book is no different but what I loved about their story is the new twist on a thriller. The paranormal aspect felt really well tied in and the three writers worked together seamlessly throughout.
At times it conveys a sparkling romance and at others it evolves into a creepy, atmospheric suspense; an excellent story of vengeance and redemption.
Brittany is a journalist still healing from a terrible motorcycle accident and Toni is still reeling from a broken heart; both women seek solace on Swift Island. Since her accident Brittany has been having visions of violent actions and is drawn to the Island in the belief she can find the person she is explicitly linked with. Toni feels as though she is running from the humiliation of a broken down relationship with someone she knew was bad news; her aunt and wife have made a wonderful life and business and so feels like the perfect place to escape to.
These three writers are known for creating excellent chemistry between their characters and this book is no different but what I loved about their story is the new twist on a thriller. The paranormal aspect felt really well tied in and the three writers worked together seamlessly throughout.
At times it conveys a sparkling romance and at others it evolves into a creepy, atmospheric suspense; an excellent story of vengeance and redemption.
June 28, 2021
I was initially drawn to this book due to its collaborative nature, having been produced by 3 authors writing one story together.
The concept alone, was unusual and intriguing enough to want to know more, and to see how the authors would make it work on the page.
Overall, i felt the concept landed seamlessly, the story didn't feel disjointed at any point and i didn't find it obvious who had written which sections despite knowing that some of the main characters and/or locations stemmed from the authors' previous works.
In fact, I'd actually love to know who wrote the viewpoint of the psychopath!
Aside from the flow of the story, i enjoyed getting to know all the main characters.
Leslie and Alice are adorable and i really enjoyed that they weren't portrayed to be a 'past it' older couple. They're active, humorous and still have a zest for life and each other in their twilight years.
Meanwhile Brittany and Toni are both battling their own demons and whilst they hit it off fairly quickly, the progression of their romantic relationship, in particular when life decisions had to be made, felt more realistic than some romance plots.
It was refreshing not to see a couple rush off into the sunset madly in love without any consideration of what they want in the present or in the future.
For anyone who's had personal experience of having their trust broken, Toni's outburst at Brittany covering up her visions, will ring true with its emotional rawness.
In essence a solid 4/5, the story is emotionally led from every angle and successfully integrates a suspense/thriller plot with a sound yet realistic romance and slight paranormal twist.
I held back a star, as i like my thrillers on the darker side, that being said, for a collaborative story such as this, from predominately romance writers, the dangerous, suspenseful side of the story was darker than i had anticipated!
The concept alone, was unusual and intriguing enough to want to know more, and to see how the authors would make it work on the page.
Overall, i felt the concept landed seamlessly, the story didn't feel disjointed at any point and i didn't find it obvious who had written which sections despite knowing that some of the main characters and/or locations stemmed from the authors' previous works.
In fact, I'd actually love to know who wrote the viewpoint of the psychopath!
Aside from the flow of the story, i enjoyed getting to know all the main characters.
Leslie and Alice are adorable and i really enjoyed that they weren't portrayed to be a 'past it' older couple. They're active, humorous and still have a zest for life and each other in their twilight years.
Meanwhile Brittany and Toni are both battling their own demons and whilst they hit it off fairly quickly, the progression of their romantic relationship, in particular when life decisions had to be made, felt more realistic than some romance plots.
It was refreshing not to see a couple rush off into the sunset madly in love without any consideration of what they want in the present or in the future.
For anyone who's had personal experience of having their trust broken, Toni's outburst at Brittany covering up her visions, will ring true with its emotional rawness.
In essence a solid 4/5, the story is emotionally led from every angle and successfully integrates a suspense/thriller plot with a sound yet realistic romance and slight paranormal twist.
I held back a star, as i like my thrillers on the darker side, that being said, for a collaborative story such as this, from predominately romance writers, the dangerous, suspenseful side of the story was darker than i had anticipated!
June 17, 2021
This is a collaborative effort by three authors, two with whom I'm familiar. These three authors work so well and seamlessly together that unless you know their work, it's hard to tell where one starts and another leaves off. And frankly, I'm a little surprised my Kindle didn't short circuit from the weight of all the talent contained in these three women.
It's hard to realize that there is not a good enough way to review this book, but I'll try.
There is a dark, evil force that presents itself to Brittany, a force she's not sure she understands, but it draws her across the country to tiny Swift Island on the extreme east coast of the United States. The Second Wave is a pub run by Leslie and Alice. Toni is their niece, visiting after a brutal breakup with Penn. (Fans of Erin Zak will recognize Toni and Penn from one of Zak's earlier works. "Breaking Down Her Walls".) By the strength of the dark visions she has, Brittany is drawn to these three women.
Brittany and Toni meet, fall sort of in love, but the path of love is not always its own reward. Trust and faith are in short supply in both Brittany and Toni, and this is where the true danger begins. Someone is after Aunt Leslie and they will go through Toni to get revenge, if they have to. Toni needs to trust Brittany, and Britt needs to be able to tell all these dear women the truth about why she's there, but she's afraid they won't believe her.
I ignored most of my adulting to read this book and the last one third of it was a definite "do not disturb me" 90 minutes.
In my mind, this opens a door for Brittany to use her "gift" in other books, but even if this is a one-off, it was truly well done, so intriguing and so captivating! Rarely do I have the chance to read a book that is so well-written, so seamless and so consummately perfect.
Brava, ladies! This is the best book I've read in a very long time. I wish this review could do it justice but people just have to get this book and find out how good it is!
It's hard to realize that there is not a good enough way to review this book, but I'll try.
There is a dark, evil force that presents itself to Brittany, a force she's not sure she understands, but it draws her across the country to tiny Swift Island on the extreme east coast of the United States. The Second Wave is a pub run by Leslie and Alice. Toni is their niece, visiting after a brutal breakup with Penn. (Fans of Erin Zak will recognize Toni and Penn from one of Zak's earlier works. "Breaking Down Her Walls".) By the strength of the dark visions she has, Brittany is drawn to these three women.
Brittany and Toni meet, fall sort of in love, but the path of love is not always its own reward. Trust and faith are in short supply in both Brittany and Toni, and this is where the true danger begins. Someone is after Aunt Leslie and they will go through Toni to get revenge, if they have to. Toni needs to trust Brittany, and Britt needs to be able to tell all these dear women the truth about why she's there, but she's afraid they won't believe her.
I ignored most of my adulting to read this book and the last one third of it was a definite "do not disturb me" 90 minutes.
In my mind, this opens a door for Brittany to use her "gift" in other books, but even if this is a one-off, it was truly well done, so intriguing and so captivating! Rarely do I have the chance to read a book that is so well-written, so seamless and so consummately perfect.
Brava, ladies! This is the best book I've read in a very long time. I wish this review could do it justice but people just have to get this book and find out how good it is!
August 17, 2021
If you have ever been fortunate enough to visit Fire Island, the gay vacation spot in NY, the fictional Swift Island seems to be its paranormal cousin.
Part romance, part mystery, and part thriller Swift Vengeance combines the work of three loved lesfic authors (Jean Copeland, Jackie D., and Erin Zak) in to one fast paced novel. It’s honestly super impressive this book reads like one fluid story, and yet if you are familiar with these author you can hear the different voices.
Summary:
After an accident Brittany is left with visions connecting her to a person with dark energy. Pushed to follow their trail and figure out their plan before it’s to late; she arrives on the island only to get a little sidetracked by Toni who is visit aunts after a recent heartbreak.
Arc Copy given in exchange for honest review.*
Part romance, part mystery, and part thriller Swift Vengeance combines the work of three loved lesfic authors (Jean Copeland, Jackie D., and Erin Zak) in to one fast paced novel. It’s honestly super impressive this book reads like one fluid story, and yet if you are familiar with these author you can hear the different voices.
Summary:
After an accident Brittany is left with visions connecting her to a person with dark energy. Pushed to follow their trail and figure out their plan before it’s to late; she arrives on the island only to get a little sidetracked by Toni who is visit aunts after a recent heartbreak.
Arc Copy given in exchange for honest review.*
February 7, 2025
Its a thriller...a definite re-read!
June 3, 2021
This LesFic thriller, authored by three BSB authors: Jean Copeland, Jackie D., and Erin Zak, is seamlessly written. Unlike short stories, readers probably won’t know who wrote which parts or if they all worked on the entirety of the book acting as each other’s editors, beta readers, copy editors, and proofreaders. Whichever way they chose to do this, it was successful. The story proceeds at a brisk pace slowed only by the occasional (often repeated) angsty moments of self-doubt.
The main character Brittany suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident. In the process of healing from that, she begins to have visions involving a bloody hand and urgent sense of imminent danger that eventually leads to Swift Island. There, she meets Toni, who is also healing, but from a broken heart. The two women bond as Brittany tries to stop a killer from striking again.
If you love thrillers, then give this one a read – it’s not exactly a mainstream thriller, but it’s scary enough that you’ll get the necessary thrills. If you’re more interested in LesFic romance, this book is for you because two wounded women unexpectedly find one another and each helps the other heal as she heals herself.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for an eARC.
#ownvoices
The main character Brittany suffered a traumatic brain injury in a motorcycle accident. In the process of healing from that, she begins to have visions involving a bloody hand and urgent sense of imminent danger that eventually leads to Swift Island. There, she meets Toni, who is also healing, but from a broken heart. The two women bond as Brittany tries to stop a killer from striking again.
If you love thrillers, then give this one a read – it’s not exactly a mainstream thriller, but it’s scary enough that you’ll get the necessary thrills. If you’re more interested in LesFic romance, this book is for you because two wounded women unexpectedly find one another and each helps the other heal as she heals herself.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for an eARC.
#ownvoices
October 19, 2021
It must be a challenge to write a book with 3 authors working on it, add that to the fact that each of them uses characters from their own previous books and the challenge multiplies I think. Taking that into account I think they did an admirable job, the premise with Brittany being connected to the mind of a serial killer and ending up on Swift Island to try and stop them is an interesting one. The thrilleresque aspect of the book is rather well done, even though you probably figure out the identity pretty soon, the chapters in the killers POV keeps your attention and the it leads to a rather good ending.
The setting is lovely and made me want to pack my bags and head to Swift Island (as long as I can avoid storms and killers).
Yet overall I am sorry to say that while this book is slightly better than average, it's not as good as it could have potential been and for me it's because of the main characters. I liked Alice and Leslie as the quirky aunts with a great love story, but they didn't have their own distinctive voices and I found myself mixing them up when reading. Toni and Brittany are, at times, a very sweet couple but there is not much depth to their relationship and I didn't find them all that likeable, especially Toni. That lack of connection with the main characters kept me from enjoying the romance part of this story.
As a reader you are not taking too big a risk picking up this book though, it might be that the connection is there for you and even it's not, this collaborative effort is still good enough to enjoy.
***An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review ***
The setting is lovely and made me want to pack my bags and head to Swift Island (as long as I can avoid storms and killers).
Yet overall I am sorry to say that while this book is slightly better than average, it's not as good as it could have potential been and for me it's because of the main characters. I liked Alice and Leslie as the quirky aunts with a great love story, but they didn't have their own distinctive voices and I found myself mixing them up when reading. Toni and Brittany are, at times, a very sweet couple but there is not much depth to their relationship and I didn't find them all that likeable, especially Toni. That lack of connection with the main characters kept me from enjoying the romance part of this story.
As a reader you are not taking too big a risk picking up this book though, it might be that the connection is there for you and even it's not, this collaborative effort is still good enough to enjoy.
***An ARC was provided by Netgalley in exchange for a honest review ***
September 5, 2021
Fantastic
Unbelievable and spellbinding. I couldn't put it down. Amazingly well written and complex. Never saw the villain coming. Please keep up the collaboration. Thank you three so much. Individually you're great but together you're unstoppable.
Unbelievable and spellbinding. I couldn't put it down. Amazingly well written and complex. Never saw the villain coming. Please keep up the collaboration. Thank you three so much. Individually you're great but together you're unstoppable.
January 15, 2023
Exciting read.
October 31, 2021
3.4 star rating
There are two primary angles to this book, first is the suspense thriller and the other is the romance. I actually enjoyed reading the mind thoughts of the villain especially the parts about livestreaming benevolence 😄...that was so on point.
The thriller was gripping early on but as the book went on, despite the frequent flashes provided, the thriller was really without action until towards the end. I understand it is suspense but with all the flashes of blood I kinda expected to know the outcome of that. In addition, I find it hard to believe Leslie wouldn't be able to identify Alice handwriting on all the presumed love messages she received around...the vision saw the note written in fountain pen.
Then with regards the romance, I actually loved Alice and Leslie's more than those of the younger lovebirds. Toni's character wasn't coming across to me as mature...I don't understand how one can keep blaming a past relationship outcome on the budding one you're in.
There are two primary angles to this book, first is the suspense thriller and the other is the romance. I actually enjoyed reading the mind thoughts of the villain especially the parts about livestreaming benevolence 😄...that was so on point.
The thriller was gripping early on but as the book went on, despite the frequent flashes provided, the thriller was really without action until towards the end. I understand it is suspense but with all the flashes of blood I kinda expected to know the outcome of that. In addition, I find it hard to believe Leslie wouldn't be able to identify Alice handwriting on all the presumed love messages she received around...the vision saw the note written in fountain pen.
Then with regards the romance, I actually loved Alice and Leslie's more than those of the younger lovebirds. Toni's character wasn't coming across to me as mature...I don't understand how one can keep blaming a past relationship outcome on the budding one you're in.
July 10, 2021
If swift island was a real place I’d absolutely be booking a holiday there it sounds adorable! I loved the relationship between Brittany and Toni and the added cuteness of Alice and Leslie…. This book only gets four stars instead of five for me because I really wish there was more focus on the visions and the creepy paranormal part of the story because the parts that were in there were great I just wanted more!
September 26, 2024
So.... I ll be honest. This one is very well written, interesting, whirlwind, has things going on....nice characters.... but 3 stars is because I personally could not connect nor enjoy it for some reason. Was not my cup of tea, I guess...
I hope it is enjoyed by many, however.
I hope it is enjoyed by many, however.
Read
March 11, 2022
Trigger & Content Warnings
Motorcycle accident recounted
Motorcycle accident recounted
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