The Lost Cantrell

by Shamiso M. Lezard

A luxury hotel, a mysterious guest, a secret organization...and a girl caught in the middle.

All Ella-Cherie Silver ever wanted was the opportunity to work at the prestigious Lost Cantrell hotel. She never expected that once she got it, an unfortunate chance encounter with a guest, one Mr Zeke Gage, would have her embroiled in a secret crime syndicate named The Organization.

Zeke promises Ella a way out of The Org. But can he save her before the criminal underworld claims her conscience or her life?

Genres: Suspense

266 pages, Paperback

First published August 3, 2022

Reviews

[Zahraa Beig · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazinggg!!!!! The writing is amazing and it sure keeps the readers interested till the very end!!! The plot was indeed intriguing and I loved every second of this book!!!

Also, I thank 'Shamiso M. Lezard", the author for an ARC copy....!!!! 😇😇😇

[C. Becker · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lost Cantrell is an unpredictable book that will have you turning pages to the end! Shamiso Lezard has created a line of fascinating characters, starting with Ella-Cherie Silver. Shamiso’s use of first POV for Ella is well-suited. The character’s straightforward, open personality is so likeable it warmed my heart. Ella’s so real and engaging with the staff inside the Lost Cantrell, it’s no wonder the owner of the building, Monsieur Hector Cantrell, gives her more responsibility—like handling Mr. Zeke Gage’s needs as a VIP hotel client. When Ella runs into Zeke in the penthouse, the chemistry begins and their friendship develops. Zeke is stricken with Ella, and he purposely changes his nightly room service order to immediately before the end of Ella’s shift to spend more time with her. Zeke’s sense of humor and laid-back personality evolves as he communicates more with Ella.
When Zeke’s coworker Colt Smithson gives Ella a gold pendant necklace with an exclusive black sapphire, she learns that the Organisation Zeke works for is a dangerous association led by “The Official” who few people ever meet. The necklace saves her life, but Zeke must draw her into the Organisation in order to keep her alive.
I found this story refreshing in many ways, from the characters, natural dialogue, settings, and plot. The story contains intrigue that kept me reading chapter after chapter. One of the best stories I’ve read! I can’t wait to read more stories by this author.

[Rae, shutupandbookup · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

Walking into the five star hotel is everything Ella has wanted, but seeing the inside completely takes her breath away. Determination is what drives Ella, the need to make her dream a reality! Upon her initial meeting with the owner of the hotel her dream may or may not take shape here.

But who could turn down a passionate, strong willed Ella?

"It's important to be happy, Ella. You're a ray of sunshine here, always smiling. Whatever you've been doing in your life so far, it's working." - Chef Ford

Only after meeting a certain Mr. Zeke Gage does Ella realize her life may change. The "particular", needs-help-communicating-man is drawing Ella in. Instant attraction on her side and a want to get to know him more.

"Hey, I haven't seen you in the restaurant before, and you haven't asked for any food to be brought up by me. . . . I'm starting to think you're a vampire or an alien or something." - Ella

Ella's growing attraction to Zeke may just uproot her life if she isn't careful. But Ella's always careful and Zeke's a good man, right?

This was a fantastic read and I couldn't put it down until the end! I loved the dynamic between Ella and Zeke. The sweet, fluffiness between them had me smiling constantly, but the big twist. . . I don't want to spoil anything because it was fun seeing everything change within a few minutes.

Loved Ella's personality so much. She truly is a ray of sunshine, but don't let her bubbly personality fool you. She can be feisty when push comes to shove! It also helped to balance out Zeke's quiet, mysterious demeanor.

There was instant attraction on both sides, though Zeke showed it a little differently. But still a very fluffy romance which I enjoyed. Even if things got a little rocky. I was grinning from ear to ear as I read about the two and what they went through in this story.

With the ending I thought the author was going to have you strung along and then drop you over a cliff. But she tied it all up with a pretty ribbon! I didn't feel like the end was rushed at all and you kind of get the freedom of fleshing out people's happily ever after's. Though I wouldn't mind seeing some of the cast brought back in future books. Again, this book has a happily ever after.

This was a sweet, fluffy read but there was some violence in a couple of scenes. No gore or anything detailed out! Simply brief things to help you understand the scene or feelings of a character. There was also no language in the book or crazy passionate scenes. Overall a rather, clean read.

This was a great debut novel and I do hope to read more by this author! Pacing was perfect and I was hooked until the very end. Enjoyed all of the character's and the fluffy romances!

Enjoy the read and give the author some stars!

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[Ruth Matheson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall 4.5*

For a debut novel this is a well written story which transports the reader across the continents from America to Africa, and also in its own evokes two different timelines although it is totally set in the present. The Lost Cantrell is an exclusive 5* hotel in New York however it gives the appearance of being a much older establishment with its decor and attitude. The main character of Ella who is a qualified chef, applies for a basic job there as she just needs to get her foot in the door of a great restaurant for experience but it is not quite what she expected. Great turns and twists throughout so you are never too sure where the story is heading next and with a good ending. Again I wasn't too sure whether this was going to become a series or not - you will have to read it to find out!

Thanks to the author for the ARC to review.

[Maggie Steel · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book is written from the viewpoint of the main character, Ella Silver. Ella has completed her studies to become a chef and is willing to start at the bottom if she has a chance to work at a top hotel, The Lost Chantrelle.
The characters who are her colleagues, and managers, are diverse and make the novel believable. Starting as a straightforward story, the tale expands to include several other characters, some more likeable than others.
This is the debut novel of this author and I was particularly impressed by the writing style and the easy flow of the book. The Lost Cantrell is an excellent book with an engrossing storyline. I am keen to read further books which this author may produce.

[Kriti Heda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ella is able to grab her dream job at The Lost Cantrell, one of the most luxurious hotels in the city. Just when everything's going fine, Zeke Gage, a mysterious guest turns up and sends Ella's life into a tangled mess. Ella is pushed into a crime syndicate against her wishes. Ella and Zeke's friendship slowly blossoms, but can they both escape this criminal fate before they die?

This book is just wonderful in all aspects- the characters, dialogue, setting, plot twists and Ella and Zeke's fluffiness.
Ella-Cherie Silver stole the show. She had this bubbly and talkative nature which made me fall in love with her instantly.
Ella and Zeke's fluffiness was something that I just couldn't forget. This book was a clean piece. No annoying romantic scenes. Instead, a lot of good fluff scenes which I loved. I just loooved Ella and Zeke's fluffy relationship and the way they took care of each other and the way they got to know more about each other and their meets at the hotel, everything about them was just amazing.
Now coming to the main part. The plot was planned very well. The way the tides turned each time in such short span- how the author thought of this is beyond me. The twists were exciting- well that's what mystery is. But I loved how just in the last few pages, the author introduced the biggest and most unexpected (but completely logical) twist.
When the book was coming to an end, I was worried about how it all would end. But here too, the author did an amazing job- she gave Ella and Zeke, a well-deserved happy ending.
I just can't believe by reading the book that this is the author's debut.
This book is a must read for you if you read the genres of mystery, suspense, or romance.

[Roxx Tarantini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finding a new-to-me author . . . is always intriguing and holds much possibility. Lezard seems to have all the right ingredients, and this first foray was - to me - a tantalising tidbit.

Ella is a wide-eyed heroine, poised on the brink of her dreams coming true. Zeke Gage could be good news for Ella's dreams - or he might not. The tale remains in the telling, and Lezard packs the tale with intrigue and suspense.

I enjoyed this book, though I might have liked to be a bit more engaged with the characters, if Lezard plans this to be a series, I look forward to reading more.

[I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of the book from the author through Voracious Readers, with no obligation to review. The opinions expressed herein are entirely my own and are given freely.]

[Ellen Aish · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chef Ella has landed her dream job at a top hotel. While looking after a special guest she walks in on something she's not meant to see and her world turns upside down. Can she trust the man who promises to protect her from harm. This is one extraordinary story which will keep you on the edge of your seat.

[Riss 🫶🏻☕️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Lost Cantrell is an epic read where Ella and Zeke have so much chemistry! When readers dive into this one, they will be pleased by the twists and turns of the plot. Ella is such a wonderful character to get to know, especially since she’s both sweet and fiery. Zeke is is more laid back but has his moments.

Readers will want to check this one out!!

[Pam C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the author's debut novel and she wrote an imaginative, engaging book. Really enjoyed reading The Lost Cantrell, both the storyline and the characters had depth. I'd recommend it!

I received a free e-book from Voracious Readers Only for my honest review.

[Penny O'shea · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a sensational debut novel! It’s not often that you come across a truly original plot but that’s what I found here. Great writing, interesting characters, and a well paced read with some intriguing aspects that kept me thoroughly engaged right until the end. Can’t wait to read more by this author … maybe even a sequel?

I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers.

[Myra McCulloch · Rating 5 out of 5]

A free book from Voracious Readers thank you

Suspense, intrigue and plot twists that have you holding your breath.
Well written! A riveting read!

[Mylene Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is by a new author- Shamiso Lezard. It is so well crafted you wouldn't believe it. Read about Ella and Zeke and their adventure. It is really a page turner. Enjoy!

[Savannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ella-Cherie Silver, a worker at the Lost Cantrell hotel, develops a fierce and fast friendship with one of the hotel's VIP guests, Zeke Gage. However, all that glitters is not gold. A chance encounter draws Ella into an organized crime syndicate. Full of fast paced action, twists and turns, and beautifully written characters, The Lost Cantrell keeps readers on their toes until the very last page.

Shamiso Lezard's writing can only be described as captivating. Her characters simply leap off the page and into your heart. I loved the open hearted earnestness of Ella, which is a perfect match for the laid back but still mysterious Zeke. Their friendship felt so real and endearing. The pacing kept going, with lots of engaging plot points and not much in the way of empty filler. Shamiso also simply writes beautifully. She is an author to keep an eye on, she's going places.

Thank you to the author for this review copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all views expressed are my own.

[Micki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this mystery/suspense book. Ms. Shamiso Lezard is a very skilled writer and this book does not read like a first novel. This book is an enjoyable read.

Initially we are introduced to the main character, Ella, who’s a newly minted chef, having just graduated from culinary school. She’s lands her dream a job at a very elegant boutique hotel in NYC. I loved the whole concept of the old regal hotel and all the foodie references. Ella soon gets mixed up with one of the hotel’s regular mysterious guests, Zeke Gate, and accidentally pulled into his world. The storyline flows very well throughout the book, and the intrigue and suspense builds at a perfect pace. The characters were complex and layered, each struggling with morally gray areas of various situations they confront. The plot twists were unexpected and very well thought out. The events were totally plausible and made for a great story from start to finish. I can’t wait to see what Ms. Lezard writes next.

[Julie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Lost Cantrell tells the story of a young woman named Ella, a budding chef fresh out of college, who is embarking on a career at The Lost Cantrell, a 5-star restaurant in a prestigious Manhattan hotel. Ella is full of enthusiasm and green energy, which inadvertently entangles her in a surreptitious organization lurking behind the scenes at the hotel. What starts out fairly grounded and plausible quickly devolves into a tale that is far-fetched and at times a little silly. If you suspend belief, ignore plot holes, and accept the story for what it is, The Lost Cantrell is entertaining enough. It helps that the protagonist is so likeable and endearing. While the book hints at a budding romance, it is better characterized as a story of suspense.

Overall, I enjoyed the book. Even being suspenseful, I found it very light-hearted and upbeat story, thanks to the ever-optimistic main character Ella.

[Christine V · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book starts as a slow burn to me. Not necessarily in the romantic sense, though it does peek my interest as to what will happen with Mr. Gage and Ella, but more so in general to the overall story.

About 1/4 of the way through, however, this book takes a slightly different turn. I feel like that change wasn’t really in line with where I thought the story was initially going. It seemed like two different stories, with the same characters and the same writing style. I will say the transition was seamless however I just couldn’t wrap my head around the change in the storyline.

The overall story is well written and it’s an intriguing storyline, it just didn’t jive with me the way I interpret it was meant to.

Special thanks to Shamiso Lezard for providing me with an ebook copy of this book.

[R J Mckay · Rating 4 out of 5]

Intriguing and unique, the author did a great job of capturing and keeping my attention. I enjoyed the way she eeked out the facts of the tale. She paced the story perfectly…until the very end where I feel she rushed the conclusion to a bit too much. I wish she had spent as much time detailing the ending as she did throughout the rest of the book.

I would read another book by her in a heartbeat.

[Anastacia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ella interviews for a job at the Lost Cantrell, an upscale hotel in NYC. She then is assigned to take care of a man who lives in the penthouse. Soon Ella's life is changed, and she is in for a dangerous ride.

This book was a bit of let-down. There is some violence and intrigue, but it's mostly boring. The romance is bare-bones, and the MC and man don't even kiss.

[Kendra Pennington · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I hope to see more from Author Shamiso Lezard in the future. So glad I took a chance on a new author!

[Judy Neilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an okay read. It felt a little strange how Zeke and Ella met and then their continued relationship. I did like the ending being able to use it to their own good.